Soldiers sit on an armored tank in a city street during nighttime, highlighting military presence and security.
Russia is pressuring the Central African Republic (CAR) to replace Wagner mercenaries with its state-run Africa Corps—this time demanding direct cash payments for continued security. However, CAR officials are reluctant, believing Wagner’s fighters are more effective and preferring to compensate Russia with minerals rather than cash. For years, Wagner has played a pivotal role in stabilizing President Touadera’s government and fending off rebels. However, since the mercenaries’ founder, Yevgeny Prigozhin, died in 2023, Moscow has been transitioning operations to the Africa Corps, as seen in Mali. Yet CAR officials remain hesitant, fearing that the new force, focused more on training than combat, lacks Wagner’s operational grit. Moscow’s demand for millions of dollars in payment has further strained talks, with CAR offering minerals instead.
AP