Russian military presence in the Central African Republic has not succeeded in stabilizing the region and has instead contributed to increased violence and a cycle of terror. Numerous reports document atrocities committed by Russian forces, showing that their involvement aligns more with resource extraction than with establishing peace. The persistent influence of armed groups and corruption further complicates attempts to resolve the ongoing civil conflict.
Recent reports challenge claims of Russian military success in the Central African Republic (C.A.R.), attributing continued instability and violence in the region to their involvement. Deputy Defense Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov’s visit to C.A.R. on March 2 emphasized Russia’s military and economic support for President Faustin-Archange Touadera, but achievements reported by Russian media contrast starkly with documented realities on the ground. Since the arrival of Russian forces in 2018, centralized internationally through the Wagner Group, now operating as the Africa Corps, the conflict has intensified rather than abated.
Data reveals that Russian troops have engaged in over 100 conflicts, resulting in at least 786 fatalities and numerous civilian incidents. Reportedly, their actions have transformed them into one of the most violent factions within C.A.R., contributing to a cycle of terror and corruption rather than fostering peace. The U.N. emphasized that the struggles over natural resources and organized crime remain prevalent amid continued armed group violence.
Furthermore, the Kremlin’s motives appear linked to resource acquisition, with reports indicating extraction of significant wealth from gold, timber, and diamonds in exchange for military support to President Touadera. Despite international attempts to establish peace, including a 2019 agreement involving 14 militia groups, rampant corruption and battlefield realities have undermined these efforts, with many former militants returning to rebel activities or aligning with Russian forces.
The security landscape remains grim, with at least two-thirds of C.A.R. still controlled by rebel factions as stated by the Global Conflict Tracker. Civilians endure the repercussions of instability, showcasing the effectiveness of explosive ordnance and kidnappings for ransom by armed groups. Furthermore, the U.N. has reported problematic regional dynamics and the prevalence of violence toward civilians, reiterating concerns over safety and governance.
Investigations unveil a systemic effort by Russia to manipulate narratives in C.A.R. through media and paid local journalists, aiming to combat unfavorable portrayals of military actions. On a larger scale, the U.S. Department of State has designated the Wagner Group as an international criminal organization due to severe human rights abuses, including mass killings and gender-based violence in conflict zones.
In summary, Russian military involvement in the Central African Republic has not led to stability, but rather an escalation of violence and human rights violations. Despite claims of success, credible reports document a pattern of corruption and terror directed at civilians. The ongoing conflicts and failed peace agreements underscore the detrimental effects of external military intervention in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
