Russian diplomats and intelligence officers expelled from Europe head to work in Africa
Photo: Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov in Uganda (Getty Images)
Russia is sending large numbers of intelligence officers, diplomats, and agents who were declared persona non grata in Europe to African countries, according to the 2026 annual report of the Estonian Foreign Intelligence Service (EFIA).
Read also: Ukraine calls on African countries to block Russia's recruitment of young people for war
The report notes that by sending its personnel to Africa, Russia not only strengthens its presence on the continent but also addresses internal staffing challenges.
Over the past decade, Western countries have expelled hundreds of Russian diplomats and closed several consulates due to Moscow’s aggressive policies and espionage activities. Strengthening ties with Africa allows the Kremlin to employ civil servants who can no longer work in the EU.
Beyond traditional military cooperation, Russia actively promotes "soft power" tools on the continent through educational and cultural programs.
The report highlights that the federal agency Rossotrudnichestvo, which plays a key role in state influence operations, is expanding its network of offices in Africa, with new branches opened in Guinea and Burkina Faso.
Additionally, the Russkiy Mir Foundation, which promotes the Russian language abroad, has opened new centers in Burundi and Uganda.
According to Estonian intelligence, through these structures, Moscow spreads anti-Western narratives, portraying Western policies as "neocolonial and paternalistic." In contrast, Russia positions itself as a "champion of a multipolar world order" and a "defender of sovereignty," offering cooperation under the guise of equal partnership.
African students sent to fight in Ukraine
The report also focuses on the use of African students in the war against Ukraine. EFIA data shows that in 2025, around 35,000 African students were studying at Russian universities. Russian authorities reportedly exploit their difficult financial situations, offering a choice between deportation or signing a contract with the Russian Ministry of Defense.
As a result, according to the Estonian service, hundreds of citizens from Zambia, Tanzania, Guinea, Cameroon, Eritrea, Nigeria, and other countries were sent to fight against Ukraine.
