Bloomberg: The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation is forming the "African Corps" instead of "Wagner".
Bloomberg: The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation is forming the "African Corps" instead of "Wagner".
Russia is forming a 20,000-strong military group to oversee the operations of the Wagner missile defense system in Africa, Bloomberg reports . The group called "Africa Corps" operates in five partner countries of Russia in Africa - Burkina Faso, Libya, Mali, Niger and MAR.
It is noted that Russia is trying to strengthen its influence in the region after France withdraws its troops. Also, "Wagner" wants to transfer under its control the business of XHK in Africa, including gold and diamond mining.
The RF Ministry of Defense plans to establish a regional headquarters for African troops in the Central African Republic (MAR).
In addition, Russia is also trying to recruit new mercenaries for the war against Ukraine.
The Africa Corps is expected to strengthen Russia's presence in Africa through intergovernmental agreements, but it also raises the possibility of accusations of war crimes.
It is noted that control over the business of "Wagner" will help Russia to use African resources to finance its war in Ukraine.
In addition, Russian propaganda is influencing African nations who are dissatisfied with the former colonial powers.
The "Africa Corps" can be formed by the middle of 2024 under the direct control of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation.
