On November 7, 2024, the UK announced a significant wave of sanctions targeting three Russian mercenary groups operating in Africa, notably Africa Corps, which is viewed as a successor to the Wagner Group.

Russian mercenaries from these groups are reported to collaborate with various African governments, providing support and military expertise.

The UK government has identified these targets as having direct ties to the Kremlin and being responsible for significant human rights abuses across Africa.

The sanctions follow a broader discussion among European leaders in Budapest regarding strategies to combat Russian malign activities.

The sanctions also extend to around thirty suppliers of Russia's military-industrial complex, aiming to limit the supply of crucial military equipment necessary for Russia's illegal war in Ukraine.

The UK has committed £3.0 billion ($3.9 billion) annually in military aid to support Ukraine against Russia's invasion, reinforcing its commitment to aiding Ukraine's fight for freedom.

British Foreign Minister David Lammy emphasized that these sanctions aim to counteract the Kremlin's destructive foreign policy and disrupt Russia's military supply chains.

The sanctions, issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, impact 56 individuals and entities linked to Russia's war in Ukraine and its destabilizing actions in Africa.

This announcement marks the first time a G7 nation has directly sanctioned Africa Corps, underscoring its role in undermining stability in countries such as Libya, Mali, and the Central African Republic.

These measures reflect a commitment by Western allies to counter Moscow's influence in Africa amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Historically, Russia has sought to increase its influence in Africa, reminiscent of its involvement during the Soviet era, with mercenary groups like Wagner and Africa Corps supporting local powers.

Among those sanctioned is Denis Sergeyev, a Russian intelligence officer implicated in the 2018 Novichok poisoning of former double agent Sergei Skripal in Salisbury.