Two Russian men jailed in Angola for terrorism and spying
Summary
Two Russian men were found guilty of terrorism and spying in Angola, accused of planning a coup and staging violent protests last year. They were sentenced to prison, and Angola’s prosecutors linked them to efforts to influence elections and a Russian disinformation network.Key Facts
- Two Russian men, Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin, were sentenced to 8 and 11 years in prison in Angola.
- They were accused of planning a coup and organizing deadly protests in July 2025 that led to riots and 22 deaths.
- The men denied the charges, saying they were in Angola for cultural and business reasons.
- Prosecutors said the men aimed to influence Angola’s 2026 presidential elections by supporting opposition or forcing changes in the ruling party.
- The Russians were linked to Africa Politology, a Russian disinformation group connected to the former Wagner mercenary group.
- Angola’s government has close historical ties to Russia but has also improved relations with the US and Europe since 2017.
- The Wagner group and its successor Africa Corps have been involved in security operations in several African countries.
- Two Angolan nationals were also tried; one got a suspended sentence and the other was acquitted, with appeals ongoing.
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