How Russia snatched power from mercenary force Wagner controlling Africa
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 21, 2026
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Russia's foreign intelligence service, the SVR, has taken control of influence operations in Africa that were previously managed by the Wagner Group following the death of its founder, Yevgeny Prigozhin. The Wagner Group, known for its controversial mercenary activities and criticized for human rights violations, had a significant presence across Africa, working with national armies in countries like Libya and Mali while engaging in disinformation campaigns and political destabilization efforts. After Prigozhin's death in 2023, the Russian defense ministry restructured Wagner's operations under the Africa Corps, focusing on military functions, while the SVR assumed control of the group's political and information warfare activities.
The investigation revealed that the SVR is now directing efforts to advance Moscow's political and economic interests in Africa. Nearly 100 consultants work for a division known as Africa Politology, which operates across countries including Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea. The SVR's strategy involves gathering intelligence on Western military and political strategies, recruiting sources, and positioning influential agents within key roles in African governments. For instance, the SVR played a role in forming the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) with Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea, marking a significant shift in regional alliances away from former colonial power France.
The investigation also uncovered a network of companies used to funnel funds for these influence operations, estimating the budget for such activities between January and October 2024 at approximately $7.3 million. Despite these efforts, the tangible economic returns are unclear. The SVR's ability to manipulate political landscapes in Africa underscores Russia's broader strategy to expand its influence in unstable regions, particularly after a series of coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger between 2021 and 2023. This strategic shift highlights how Russia is leveraging intelligence
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/21/2026