Two Russian Men Jailed in Angola for Terrorism and Spying 2026

Two Russian men have been found guilty in Angola for terrorism and spying, accused of planning a coup and organizing deadly demonstrations over fuel price hikes. Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin were sentenced to eight and 11 years in jail respectively. They denied the charges, claiming they were in Angola for cultural and business activities.

Fuel Price Protests and the Violent Backdrop

From 28–30 July 2025, a minibus taxi strike over fuel price increases descended into riots and looting. Official figures show 22 people were killed and more than 1,600 arrested. Angola’s security forces were accused of firing live ammunition at protesters, though the government called its use of force “progressive” and justified. Human Rights Watch had previously condemned Angola’s use of rubber bullets and teargas during a peaceful protest on 12 July 2025.

Allegations Against the Russian Defendants

Angolan prosecutors said Lakshtanov and Ratchin sought to influence next year’s presidential elections, including by funding the opposition party UNITA or forcing a leadership change within the ruling MPLA. Prosecutors also linked the men to Africa Politology, a Russian disinformation network that emerged from the Wagner mercenary group. After Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s death in 2023, Africa Politology was taken over by Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), and Wagner was rebranded as Africa Corps and absorbed by Russia’s military.

Key Takeaways

• Two Russian nationals convicted of terrorism and spying in Angola.
• Violent fuel price protests in July 2025 left 22 dead and over 1,600 arrested.
• Prosecution claims link defendants to a Russian disinformation network and coup planning.
• Case highlights Russia’s expanding influence in energy-rich African nations.

Geopolitical Context: Russia’s Role in Angola

Angola’s economy is heavily dependent on oil exports, and the country has historically maintained close ties 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 opposing forces. Today, the presence of Africa Corps and allegations of disinformation campaigns underscore the ongoing rivalry for influence over Africa’s energy resources.

The verdict sends a strong message to foreign operatives attempting to destabilize the region. As fuel price volatility continues to spark unrest, the intersection of energy policy, security, and international espionage remains a critical issue.

FAQ