In a significant ruling, an Angolan court has convicted two Russian men, Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin, on charges of terrorism and espionage. The verdict stems from a purported conspiracy to orchestrate a coup and incite violent protests over rising fuel prices in Angola last year. Lakshtanov received an eight-year prison sentence, while Ratchin was sentenced to eleven years. Both men have maintained their innocence, asserting they were in the country for cultural and business purposes.
Details of the Conviction
The court’s decision highlights the tense political climate in Angola, particularly in the wake of civil unrest that erupted from 28 to 30 July 2025. During this period, a minibus taxi strike protesting fuel price increases spiralled into chaos, resulting in 22 fatalities and over 1,600 arrests. The Angolan government faced widespread criticism for its heavy-handed response, as security forces reportedly used live ammunition against demonstrators. Human rights organisations, including Human Rights Watch, condemned the government’s actions, alleging excessive force was employed during an earlier demonstration on 12 July 2025.
Prosecutors outlined a narrative that Lakshtanov and Ratchin aimed to manipulate the forthcoming presidential elections by funding the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), the country’s largest opposition party. Furthermore, they claimed the pair sought to instigate a leadership change within the dominant Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), which has governed the nation since its independence from Portugal in 1975.
Links to Russian Disinformation Networks
Compounding the gravity of the case, prosecutors asserted that the two Russians were associated with Africa Politology, a disinformation network that evolved from the notorious Wagner Group. Following the death of Wagner’s founder, Yevgeny Prigozhin, in 2023, the group was restructured and integrated into Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR). This transformation has facilitated a broader Russian influence across Africa, where they have engaged in various security operations.
Angola’s historical ties with Russia date back to the Cold War, during which the Soviet Union supported the MPLA during the country’s lengthy civil conflict. However, since President João Lourenço assumed office in 2017, Angola has sought to diversify its international relations, fostering closer ties with the United States and European nations.
Regional Implications and Broader Context
Russia’s increasing involvement in African affairs, particularly via the Wagner Group and its successor, Africa Corps, reflects a strategic pivot towards the continent. The mercenary group has played a pivotal role in supporting numerous authoritarian regimes in nations such as the Central African Republic, Mali, and more recently, Equatorial Guinea and Libya.
In a further twist, Madagascar’s President Michael Randrianirina has enhanced relations with Russia since his ascension to power through a coup in October 2025, underscoring a trend among some African leaders to align with Moscow.
In addition to the convictions of Lakshtanov and Ratchin, two Angolan citizens were also implicated in the trial. Sports journalist Carlos Tomé received a two-year suspended sentence, while Francisco de Oliveira, the youth wing leader of UNITA, was acquitted. Prosecutors have since appealed both sentences, as have the Russian defendants, who will remain in custody during the appeal process.
Why it Matters
The sentencing of Lakshtanov and Ratchin raises critical questions about foreign influence in Angolan politics and the broader implications for regional stability. As Angola grapples with economic challenges and rising dissent, the involvement of external actors like Russia could significantly alter the balance of power. The case underscores the precarious nature of political dissent in the country and highlights the potential for escalating tensions amid ongoing socio-economic grievances. As Angola navigates its future, the interplay between domestic politics and international relations will be crucial in shaping the nation’s trajectory.
