Wagner Group fighters. Stock photo: AFP via Getty Images
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that Ukraine is fully prepared to share its extensive experience in combating Wagnerites—mercenaries affiliated with the notorious Russian Wagner Group—with various African nations, emphasizing the need for collaborative security efforts in the region.
Quote: “We know who the Wagnerites are. We know how to fight them. We know how to destroy them. This shows that we have relevant experience.”
Advertisement:
Details: Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukrainian military personnel have actively participated in numerous missions across African nations, asserting that the contemporary Ukrainian forces possess invaluable expertise that could be effectively utilized to support these countries in enhancing their military contingents.
In his statements, the President urged African nations to explore advanced security technologies that Ukraine has developed and deployed, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), which could significantly bolster their defense capabilities.
Furthermore, Zelenskyy indicated that Ukraine could extend its assistance in tackling disinformation campaigns and strengthening cyber defense strategies, drawing from its experiences as a frequent target of thousands of cyber attacks that have threatened its banking system and communications infrastructure.
The Ukrainian leader also pointed out that many African countries may soon face a multitude of challenges stemming from Russian influence, not only on the continent but also within global markets. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing security and sovereignty over short-term economic gains from cheaper resources, especially amidst their own economic hardships.
He outlined potential areas of cooperation that include food security, education, mining, digital transformation, and the innovative Diia government application, which has revolutionized public services in Ukraine.
“We can gladly offer all these things,” Zelenskyy expressed eagerly, showcasing Ukraine’s willingness to assist in comprehensive development efforts in Africa.
Background:
- In July of this year, the Malian army and its Russian allies suffered significant losses at the hands of Tuareg rebels. The Tuareg from the CSP-PSD movement released compelling evidence, including photographs and videos, depicting a destroyed Wagner Group convoy. This confrontation took place in the town of Tinzaouaten, near Mali’s border with Algeria, on the 25th and 26th of July. Reports indicate that at least 20 Wagner fighters were killed, while others were captured during the engagement.
- Moreover, alongside the casualties among the Russians from the Wagner Group in northern Mali, a prominent mercenary propagandist known for his contributions to the Grey Zone channel was also killed in the conflict.
- In the aftermath of the Mali operation, photo documentation surfaced showing Tuareg rebels proudly displaying the Ukrainian flag, symbolizing solidarity and shared objectives.
- As of August, UK intelligence conducted an analysis of the Wagner Group and its leadership, noting a significant decline in the group’s cohesion and suggesting that many surviving members are opting to leave in the wake of internal strife and the recent death of its founder, Yevgeny Prigozhin.
Support UP or become our patron!
**Interview with Military Expert Dr. Alexei Petrov on Ukraine’s Approach to Combating Wagner Group Influence in Africa**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Dr. Petrov! Today, we’re discussing a significant announcement from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy regarding Ukraine’s readiness to assist African nations in dealing with the Wagner Group. What are your initial thoughts on Zelenskyy’s comments?
**Dr. Petrov:** Thank you for having me. President Zelenskyy’s remarks reflect a proactive approach to international security, particularly in the context of emerging partnerships with African nations facing threats from the Wagner Group. His assertion that Ukraine has valuable experience in combating these mercenaries is not only practical but also timely, given the recent escalation of Wagner’s activities in places like Mali, where we saw reports of their fighters being killed in attacks by jihadist groups [[1](https://www.reuters.com/world/least-seven-russian-mercenaries-killed-mali-attack-2024-11-22/)].
**Interviewer:** Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of collaborative security efforts. How do you see this cooperation developing on the ground?
**Dr. Petrov:** The collaboration could take various forms. Ukraine has experience with advanced military technologies, including UAVs and USVs, which can be crucial for surveillance and operational effectiveness against militant groups. By sharing these technologies, Ukraine can help African nations build their defense capabilities significantly. Moreover, addressing cyber threats and disinformation is essential, especially considering how the Wagner Group operates — often using misinformation as a strategic tool.
**Interviewer:** What do you think about Zelenskyy’s warnings regarding the dangers of Russian influence in Africa?
**Dr. Petrov:** That’s a critical point. Many African countries are increasingly engaging with Russia for economic incentives. However, Zelenskyy is right to stress that security and sovereignty should take precedence over short-term economic gains. This sentiment resonates particularly well today, as many nations are grappling with the complexities of foreign partnerships and the potential ramifications of increased Russian presence, which could lead to instability and conflict.
**Interviewer:** President Zelenskyy also mentioned areas of cooperation like food security and digital transformation. How do these contribute to a stronger defense posture?
**Dr. Petrov:** Food security directly influences a nation’s stability, particularly in regions prone to conflict. When populations face hunger, social unrest can follow, creating fertile ground for group recruitment—like that of the Wagner Group. Similarly, digital transformation is crucial. By enhancing their digital infrastructure and cybersecurity, African nations can protect themselves from external manipulation and invasions, which are often part of hybrid warfare tactics employed by mercenaries and hostile states.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what do you think the implications of this partnership could be for Africa in the long term?
**Dr. Petrov:** If executed effectively, this partnership could empower African nations to better manage their security environments and reduce dependency on foreign mercenaries. Such a shift may result in more stable governance and improved regional cooperation against external threats. Ukraine’s involvement could lead to a more balanced geopolitical landscape in Africa, where nations work together to prioritize their security interests over potentially exploitative relationships with mercenaries.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Petrov, for your insights on this important topic! It will be interesting to see how these developments unfold in the coming months.
**Dr. Petrov:** Thank you for having me!
