Russia is spreading new fakes about “Ukrainian mercenaries” in Africa: what goals does the Kremlin pursue?

The Center for Countering Disinformation stated that Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov baselessly accused Ukraine of the participation of its “mercenaries” in the activities of terrorist groups in Africa. The Center emphasized that such statements are an element of Russian propaganda and an attempt to hide the activities of Russian military structures on the continent.

This was reported by the press service of the Central Police Department.

It is noted that Lavrov’s claims about the alleged participation of Ukrainian “mercenaries” in “terrorist raids” in Africa are not supported by any evidence and are an example of the mirror accusation tactic that the Kremlin uses to divert attention from its own actions.

The Center emphasized that the “African Corps” of the Russian Defense Ministry, which was called the successor to the “Wagner” structure, is openly operating in Africa. According to the Center, for years Russia has been trying to present its military presence on the continent as a security factor, but in fact it supports instability, helps preserve elites loyal to Moscow, and gains access to strategic resources.

The Center for Countering Disinformation also stated that one of the tasks of the Russian presence in Africa is to recruit people to participate in the war against Ukraine. According to the Center, the scale of such recruitment is causing concern among the governments of African states.

Let us recall that Russian propaganda has launched a new wave of disinformation aimed at discrediting the Ukrainian military. This time, the Russian Federation announced the alleged preparation of a “report” on “atrocities committed by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.”

By the way, Zimbabwe’s counter-terrorism police reported that on Monday, June 29, they detained a man who was recruiting people for the Russian army.

Earlier, the GUR stated that Russia plans to recruit a record 18,500 foreigners to its army in 2026. According to Ukrainian intelligence, foreign mercenaries remain an important resource for the Russian army amid significant losses in the war against Ukraine.

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