Summary
Two Russian nationals are set to stand trial in Angola, accused of inciting anti-government protests and interfering in upcoming elections. The charges relate to an alleged Russian plot involving political disruption, linked to a group emerging from the now-defunct Wagner Group. The defendants deny the charges, claiming they were working on a cultural project.
Key Facts
- Two Russians, Igor Ratchin and Lev Lakshtanov, were arrested in Angola last August.
- They face 11 charges, including terrorism and espionage.
- The prosecution links their actions to Africa Politology, a group connected to the former Wagner Group.
- The defence denies any connection to this group and says the project was cultural in nature.
- Angola, a major oil and diamond exporter, has strategic significance to Russia.
- Russian companies have left Angola due to international sanctions related to the Ukraine war.
- Angolan President João Lourenço's administration is moving closer to Western countries.
