Angola sentenced two Russian nationals to prison on 21 July 2026 for terrorism and espionage, exposing a Russia-linked disinformation operation targeting
Africa · Southern
Key Facts
—Verdict. Igor Ratchin and Lev Lakshtanov were convicted on 21 July 2026 in Luanda.
—Sentences. Ratchin received 11 years; Lakshtanov received 8 years for terrorism and espionage.
—Alleged network. Prosecutors linked the men to “Africa Politology,” a group with Wagner-era roots.
The two are accused of inciting protests and interfering in local elections but denied the charges.
The men were convicted over alleged plan to stage coup and organise deadly demonstrations over fuel prices last year
A group of Russians and Angolans are going on trial in Angola after being accused of fomenting protests, which they deny.
Igor Ratchin et Lev Lakshtanov, arrêtés en août 2025, ont été reconnus coupables d’avoir attisé un mouvement de contestation…
DVOJICA ruskih državljana, Igor Ratchin i Lev Lakshtanov, osuđeni su u Angoli na višegodišnje zatvorske kazne zbog terorizma i…
Sąd w Luandzie uznał rosyjskiego konsultanta politycznego Igora Ratczyna i tłumacza Lwa Laksztanowa winnymi terroryzmu,…
Two Russian men jailed in Angola for terrorism and spying
En Angola, l’affaire des « espions russes », reflet du tournant pro-occidental du pays
Luanda stawia się Moskwie. Rosjanie skazani w Angoli za szpiegostwo i terroryzm
Суд в Анголе приговорил российских граждан к реальным срокам по обвинению в шпионаже и попытке вмешательства в выборы
Equatorial Guinea man warns of Russian recruitment trap | Africanews
