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Putin’s Secret Army? Russia Quietly Deploys 5,000 Troops Across Africa With Wagner Veterans
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Russia currently maintains approximately 5,000 troops across eight African countries, according to a recent infographic published by open-source intelligence group Clash Report.
This force is formally referred to as the “African Corps” and operates under the command of the Russian Ministry of Defense. It includes former Wagner Group personnel integrated into regular military structures.
The largest Russian deployments are concentrated in Libya, Mali, and the Central African Republic.
According to Defense Express on July 15, in Mali, Russia has positioned at least seven T-72B3 tanks, five BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles, and over 50 other armored vehicles, as revealed in January 2025.
Russia’s Military Presence in Africa
— Clash Report (@clashreport) July 14, 2025
Troop presence rises to 3,200–5,000 across 8 countries, up from 2,000 in 2020.
Focus on regime protection, counterinsurgency, and resource site security.
Expansion eyed in Equatorial Guinea and DR Congo for strategic access. pic.twitter.com/SdJN6u581K
In Libya, Russia has resumed operations at several airbases and previously stationed up to 14 MiG-29 and Su-24 fighter jets. These efforts suggest a more extensive presence than publicly acknowledged.
Russian forces were also reported in Equatorial Guinea as of May 2025, a country with a standing force of around 1,100 troops and limited armored capacity.
While not highlighted in earlier assessments, Equatorial Guinea is now considered a potential site for expanded Russian military operations on the continent.
In addition to personnel and hardware, Russia is reportedly finalizing the construction of a naval base in Sudan.
Once operational, this base would mark a significant shift in the nature of Moscow’s military engagement in Africa, offering access to strategic maritime routes and supporting a broader logistical network.
The presence of Russian troops is closely tied to local governments and frequently involves training programs, advisory roles, and protection of key resource sites.
In countries such as Mali and the Central African Republic, Russian units are engaged in securing mining operations and other extractive infrastructure, which serve as a financial resource base.
In the context of the ongoing war against Ukraine, Russia’s growing influence in Africa plays a strategic role. The continent acts as a secondary resource zone, helping Moscow circumvent sanctions and generate revenue to support its military efforts.
While the deployments are geographically distant from the Ukrainian front, their economic and logistical significance contributes to sustaining Russia’s ability to wage a prolonged war.
Earlier, Ukraine’s intelligence agency reported that Russia had expanded its media operations across Africa, broadcasting in six languages and partnering with 60 local TV channels. Since June 2025, RT has launched Portuguese-language services in Angola and Mozambique, with Amharic broadcasts for Ethiopia expected by the end of the year.
