Russia’s Possible Deployment of Mercenaries in Equatorial Guinea

Reports indicate that mercenaries from the Russian African Corps may have been deployed to Equatorial Guinea, with sightings in the city of Bata. High-level Russian diplomatic discussions have occurred in the country, and while involvement in Equatorial Guinea has been noted, findings linking mercenaries to Russian PMCs remain scant. Furthermore, there are indications of Belarus also deploying mercenaries in the region.

Recent reports suggest that the Russian Federation has potentially deployed mercenaries from the African Corps to Equatorial Guinea, particularly observed in the city of Bata. A video shared by DiarioRombe on social media indicates that vehicles carrying these mercenaries were seen moving actively, which may signal an escalation in their operations. The individuals captured on film were wearing a widely used camouflage pattern known as MultiCam, common among various military factions globally, including Russian mercenaries. In June, significant diplomatic exchanges occurred between Russian officials, including Deputy Defense Minister Yunus-bek Yevkurov and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, and Equatorial Guinea’s leadership. Reports suggest that Yevkurov oversees the Russian Federation’s African operations, notably in Libya, Niger, and Burkina Faso. However, there has been a lack of media reporting on the deployment of these mercenary groups specific to Russian private military contractors (PMCs). Additionally, Belarus has shown interest in Equatorial Guinea, introducing a contingent of mercenaries from the GardService company. The military activities of Russians in Africa have drawn attention, particularly following an incident involving the Russian businessman Viktor Granov, who was connected to arms dealer Viktor Bout, and was reportedly among the crew members of an IL-76 cargo plane that crashed in Sudan. Documents found at the crash site linked Granov to previous arms dealings in the Congo. Furthermore, on September 21, it was reported that a base in Krasnodar Krai, Russia, used for training mercenaries of the African Corps, was the scene of a fire. This base has become operative in training fighters since July 2023.

The presence of Russian mercenaries in Africa, particularly those linked to the African Corps, highlights Russia’s strategic interests in the continent. Diplomatic relations between Russia and African nations have been strengthening, reflecting increased military and economic collaborations. Notably, the African Corps has been deployed in various conflict zones in Africa as part of Russia’s broader strategy to extend its influence. The deployment in Equatorial Guinea aligns with this pattern, as Russia seeks to bolster its posture in key geopolitical areas.

The potential deployment of Russian mercenaries in Equatorial Guinea underscores the country’s growing tactical engagements in Africa. The involvement of high-ranking Russian officials in diplomatic discussions with Equatorial Guinea signals a commitment to expanding Russia’s influence in the region, drawing parallels to activities observed in other African nations. As the geopolitical landscape continues evolving, the actions of these mercenary groups may significantly impact local and regional stability.

Original Source: mil.in.ua