UK Government Imposes Sanctions on Private Mercenary Groups Linked to Kremlin

 On Thursday, November 7, the UK government unveiled new sanctions targeting three private mercenary groups associated with the Kremlin, including Africa Corps, a successor to the notorious Wagner group. The sanctions are designed to disrupt Russian influence and curb illicit activities in Africa, with a particular focus on Libya, Mali, and the Central African Republic (CAR).

“These sanctions will bear down on Russian malign activity, exposing and combatting Russia’s illicit operations across Africa,” the UK government stated. This move marks the first time a G7 nation has directly sanctioned Africa Corps, signaling a firm stance against Russia’s growing presence on the continent.

Russia has ramped up its involvement in Africa by deploying mercenaries and military advisors to support governments in several countries, mirroring Soviet-era tactics of extending influence. UK officials believe that Africa Corps, along with other groups like Espanola and Bears Brigade, is helping to advance Moscow's geopolitical agenda in Africa through intimidation and violent means.

The sanctions were announced ahead of a key summit in Sochi, where Russia is set to host African foreign ministers. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the sanctions are part of a broader effort to counter the Kremlin's destabilizing activities in Africa and to limit resources that are being funneled into Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine.

This new sanctions package is the UK's largest against Russia since May 2023 and includes measures against suppliers enhancing Russia's military capabilities. Additionally, a Russian intelligence operative, linked to the 2018 chemical attack in Salisbury, has also been targeted.

In his remarks, Lammy emphasized the UK's unwavering support for Ukraine, pledging continued military aid. “Putin is nearly 1,000 days into a war he thought would only take a few,” Lammy said. “He will fail, and I will continue to bear down on the Kremlin and support the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom.”