Two Russian Men Jailed in Angola for Terrorism and Spying 2026

Two Russian men have been found guilty by an Angolan court of terrorism and spying after being accused of planning a coup and helping to organize deadly demonstrations in the southern African country last year. Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin were sentenced to eight and 11 years in jail respectively, though they denied the charges, claiming they were in Angola for cultural and business activities. This high-profile case highlights growing concerns over foreign interference in African nations and the lasting influence of Russian mercenary networks.

How the Plot Unfolded

From 28-30 July 2025, a minibus taxi strike over fuel price hikes descended into riots and looting, leaving 22 people dead and more than 1,600 arrested, according to official figures. Angola’s security forces were accused of firing live ammunition at protesters; the government said its “progressive” use of force was justified. Human Rights Watch previously stated that Angola employed “excessive force” when it used rubber bullets and teargas to break up a peaceful protest against rising fuel prices on 12 July 2025.

Angolan prosecutors alleged that Lakshtanov and Ratchin wanted to influence next year’s presidential elections by funding the largest opposition party, the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), or forcing a leadership change within the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), which has ruled since independence in 1975. The men were also linked to Africa Politology, a Russian disinformation and propaganda network that emerged from the Wagner mercenary group.

Africa Politology and the Russian Connection

Africa Politology was taken over by Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) after the death of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in 2023, according to an investigation by media outlets including Forbidden Stories. Wagner was rebranded as Africa Corps and absorbed by Russia’s military. The case reveals how Russian state-linked entities continue to operate covertly in Africa, leveraging disinformation to destabilize governments and secure economic interests.

Angola, whose economy is highly dependent on oil exports, has historically been close with Russia. During the Cold War, the Soviet Union and Cuba supported the MPLA in Angola’s 1975-2002 civil war, while the US and apartheid South Africa backed UNITA. Today, Russia seeks to maintain influence in resource-rich African countries, often using private military contractors and propaganda networks.

Key Evidence Presented in Court

Implications for International Security

This conviction sends a strong signal that African nations are willing to prosecute foreign operatives accused of meddling. However, it also raises questions about the extent of Russian intelligence activities across the continent. The case underscores the need for stronger counter-intelligence measures in Africa and greater international cooperation to combat disinformation.

Key Takeaways

• Two Russian nationals convicted of terrorism and spying in Angola for coup plot.
• Sentences of 8 and 11 years reflect the severity of charges.
• Link to Africa Politology highlights ongoing Russian disinformation campaigns.
• Angola's historical ties with Russia complicate diplomatic responses.
• Case may deter future foreign interference but shows vulnerabilities.

FAQ

The Angola court's decision marks a significant moment in countering foreign interference in Africa. As Russian influence continues to evolve through new proxies like Africa Corps, nations worldwide will be watching closely to see how similar cases are handled in the future.