Russian military support in the Central African Republic has been ineffective in quelling violence, leading to widespread allegations of human rights abuses and exploitation of natural resources, alongside minimal improvements in local stability despite claims of success from Russian officials.
Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, the Russian deputy defense minister, visited the Central African Republic (C.A.R.) on March 2, providing assurances of ongoing military and economic support for President Faustin-Archange Touadera. State-sponsored outlet Sputnik Africa reported that Russian military efforts in C.A.R. have been highly effective in quelling militant opposition, citing an unnamed Russian deputy ambassador to the UN.
However, these claims have been broadly discredited. The Russian military’s involvement, which began in 2018 with the arrival of the Kremlin-backed Wagner Group—now known as Africa Corps—has not resulted in significant improvements in security. Reports indicate that rather than fostering stability, Russian forces have contributed to increasing violence and corruption in the region.
The Russia-backed Africa Corps has been accused of conducting a “campaign of terror” against civilians, with reports documenting over 362 violent incidents that resulted in approximately 786 deaths from 2018 to 2024. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has reportedly profited from the extraction of valuable resources, including minerals and timber, amounting to around $500 million annually.
Central African Republic, plagued by civil war since 2013, struggles to maintain control amidst ongoing violence from rebel groups. Despite efforts by President Touadera’s administration to negotiate peace through various agreements, significant portions of the former rebels returned to armed struggle, compounding the instability.
Corruption has stymied international support aimed at disarmament and peace, leading to lost funds despite substantial Western investments. Numerous rebel factions still control significant areas of the country. Statements from the U.N. indicate persistent instability in C.A.R., exacerbated by competition over resources and armed group activities.
Investigations suggest that the Kremlin has intensified propaganda operations, downplaying the dire situation in C.A.R. Reports indicate that Russian forces engage in widespread atrocities, including mass killings and sexual violence, further complicating the humanitarian crisis. In response to ongoing abuses, the U.S. designated Wagner as an international criminal organization in early 2023, citing its extensive human rights violations.
In summary, Russian military involvement in the Central African Republic has not alleviated violence or led to peace. Instead, reports indicate an escalation of atrocities and exploitation of the nation’s resources, undermining local and international efforts to stabilize the region. The ongoing conflict reflects the multi-faceted complications presented by external military interference and internal corruption, indicating a persistent humanitarian crisis.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
