Two Russians handed down jail terms for terrorism and spying in Angola
Summary
Two Russian men were convicted in Angola for terrorism and spying related to efforts to interfere in the country’s upcoming presidential election. They were accused of spreading false information, stirring up protests, and trying to influence politics through a network linked to the Wagner mercenary group.Key Facts
- Igor Ratchin was sentenced to 11 years in prison and Lev Lakshtanov to 8 years.
- They were arrested in Angola’s capital, Luanda, in August on charges of terrorism, spying, and political interference.
- The court said they were part of Africa Politology, a Russian political influence operation linked to Wagner.
- Prosecutors said the accused aimed to spread anti-Western messages and affect Angola’s 2025 presidential election.
- Two Angolan citizens were also tried: Amor Carlos Tomé got a suspended sentence, and Francisco Oliveira was acquitted.
- The Russians denied ties to Wagner and claimed they were planning a Russian cultural center in Angola.
- Prosecutors alleged the Russians paid journalists to spread pro-Russian and anti-government content worth over $24,000.
- The case involved claims of organizing protests and maintaining secret meetings with political figures from both ruling and opposition parties.
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