On Thursday, November 7, the United Kingdom government made an announcement regarding the implementation of new sanctions. These sanctions specifically target three private mercenary groups believed to be associated with the Kremlin, including Africa Corps, which is considered a successor to the infamous Wagner group. The primary objective of these sanctions is to effectively disrupt Russian influence and illicit activities across the African continent, particularly in regions such as Libya, Mali, and the Central African Republic (CAR). This information was disclosed in an official statement released by the government.
UK Lay Sanctions On Russia-Backed Wagner Group Successor Africa Corps
“These sanctions will bear down on Russian malign activity… exposing and combatting Russia’s illicit activity in Africa,” the statement read. Notably, these measures mark the first direct sanctions against Africa Corps by a G7 nation.
As part of its renewed focus on Africa, Russia has increasingly deployed mercenaries and advisors to support governments on the continent, bolstering its influence, a strategy reminiscent of Soviet-era geopolitics. British officials believe that Africa Corps, alongside other mercenary groups like Espanola and Bears Brigade, are advancing Moscow’s agenda in Africa, often through force and intimidation.
The announcement of sanctions precedes a summit in Sochi, where Russia will host African foreign ministers. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy respectfully highlighted that the sanctions aim to counter the Kremlin’s destabilizing activities across Africa and limit resources supporting Russia’s ongoing military campaign in Ukraine.
The United Kingdom has imposed its most extensive sanctions against Russia since May 2023, targeting suppliers suspected of aiding Russia’s military capabilities and a Russian intelligence operative linked to the 2018 chemical attack in Salisbury. The UK continues to be a steadfast ally of Ukraine in the ongoing conflict, committing £3 billion in annual military support.
“President Putin has been engaged in a military conflict for nearly 1,000 days, which he initially believed would be of a shorter duration,” stated Lammy. “Ultimately, his efforts will not succeed, and I remain committed to exerting pressure on the Russian government while extending my support to the people of Ukraine in their pursuit of freedom.”