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In a significant ruling that underscores escalating tensions within Angola, a court has sentenced two Russian citizens, Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin, to eight and eleven years in prison, respectively. The pair was convicted on charges of terrorism and espionage, accused of conspiring to instigate a coup and incite violent protests over rising fuel costs in the southern African nation last year.
Allegations of Conspiracy and Violence
The convictions stem from events that unfolded between 28 and 30 July 2025, when a strike by minibus taxi operators, protesting against soaring fuel prices, spiralled into chaos. The protests resulted in a tragic loss of life, with 22 individuals reported dead and over 1,600 arrested as riots and looting broke out across the capital, Luanda. Human Rights Watch has previously condemned the Angolan government for its heavy-handed response, alleging the use of live ammunition against demonstrators during a peaceful protest on 12 July 2025.
Angolan prosecutors allege that Lakshtanov and Ratchin aimed to sway the upcoming presidential elections by financing the largest opposition party, the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), or by attempting to unseat the ruling Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), which has been in power since the country gained independence from Portugal in 1975. The prosecution also highlighted the men’s purported connections to Africa Politology, a Russian disinformation network linked to the now-defunct Wagner Group.
The Broader Context of Russian Influence in Africa
Historically, Angola has maintained close ties with Russia, particularly during the Cold War, when the Soviet Union supported the MPLA during the Angolan civil war. However, since President João Lourenço took office in 2017, there has been a noticeable shift towards strengthening relations with the United States and European nations. Despite this, Russia’s presence in Africa has grown substantially over the past decade, with the Wagner Group and its successor, Africa Corps, involved in various military and security operations across the continent.
In recent years, Russian forces have been deployed in several African nations, including Mali and the Central African Republic, while reports indicate that Russia’s military is also active in countries like Equatorial Guinea, Libya, and Sudan. The increasing influence of Russian mercenaries and military personnel in Africa raises concerns about geopolitical dynamics in the region, particularly amid rising tensions between global powers.
Local Legal Proceedings and Appeals
In addition to the Russian defendants, two Angolans were also tried in connection with the same case. Carlos Tomé, a sports journalist, received a two-year suspended sentence, while Francisco de Oliveira, the secretary-general of UNITA’s youth wing, was acquitted. Prosecutors have appealed these sentences, as have Lakshtanov and Ratchin, although they will remain in custody during the appeal process.
The Russian embassy in Angola has yet to issue a statement regarding the verdicts, leaving many to speculate about the diplomatic ramifications of this high-profile case.
Why it Matters
The sentencing of Lakshtanov and Ratchin highlights not only the fragile political landscape in Angola but also the complexities of international relations in Africa. As Russia seeks to expand its influence on the continent, the implications for local governance, civil rights, and foreign policy are profound. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential for foreign involvement to destabilise domestic affairs, raising critical questions about sovereignty and the future of Angolan democracy.