Russia Sends Troops to Equatorial Guinea to Protect President, Reports Say
Russia has reportedly sent up to 200 troops to Equatorial Guinea to provide security for the president and his family, according to several media sources. BBC explains that the soldiers are training elite guards in the country’s two largest cities, Malabo and Bata.
This development is part of Russia’s broader effort to expand its influence in Africa. BBC highlights that in recent years, Russia has deployed thousands of mercenaries to parts of West and Central Africa to support military regimes and combat insurgents. The troops in Equatorial Guinea may include members of Corps Africa, a paramilitary group formerly known as Wagner, now under Russian military control.
Equatorial Guinea, with a population of 1.7 million, is led by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the world’s longest-serving president, in power since 1979. His son and vice-president, Teodoro Obiang Mangue, is known for his extravagant lifestyle and has faced multiple scandals and sanctions.
BBC notes that the administration has been criticized for human rights abuses, including alleged killings and torture. Despite this, the country is strengthening ties with Russia, exploring military and economic deals, including agreements related to gas and minerals. Both the president and vice-president have visited Russia recently to solidify these partnerships.
In September, President Obiang publicly thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for sending military instructors to improve Equatorial Guinea’s defense capabilities, according to state news agency TASS.
The growing Russian presence in Africa raises concerns for Western countries, particularly the United States, which has historically invested in Equatorial Guinea’s energy sector but has shown less interest in recent years.
BBC highlights that some African nations, including those that have experienced recent coups, are distancing themselves from Western allies like France and are instead seeking closer ties with Russia, blaming the West for failing to address ongoing insurgencies.
Human rights activist Tutu Alicante told VOA that Russia is “flexing its military and economic muscles” in Equatorial Guinea, which could challenge US influence in the region.
This highlights how global power struggles are shifting, with Russia actively working to strengthen its foothold in Africa, as reported by the BBC.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c30pjv8vp80o