The Central African Republic is considering replacing Wagner with the African Corps

• Russia is proposing to replace Wagner with the African Corps.
• The government of the Central African Republic is refusing to make cash payments.
• Wagner ensures the government's protection and access to mineral resources.

BANGUI, Central African Republic — Officials of the Central African Republic announced that Russia has blocked the opportunity to replace the private group of mercenaries Wagner with the state African Corps and requested to pay for additional services without payment.

The government of the Central African Republic does not intend to fulfill Moscow's demands, as they consider Wagner more effective. The authorities prioritize payment for services in minerals rather than preparation.

Wagner has been present for many years in the Central African Republic, where they protect President Faustin-Archange Touadéra and his government, helping him to win a constitutional referendum in 2023, which could extend his rule for an indefinite term. In exchange for this, Wagner receives access to rich mineral resources of the country, including gold.

Russia is trying to transition from Wagner to the African Corps since the moment the leader of Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, died in a plane crash in 2023. Earlier this year, Wagner's mercenaries were replaced in Mali.

A military official of the Central African Republic stated that under Russia's demands, the country must cover not only personnel expenses for the African Corps but also pay significant sums to Russia, which amount to billions of CFA francs (millions of dollars).

Officials in Bangui reported that they cannot pay this sum. Currently, they hope to compensate Russia with strategic and mineral resources, including gold, uranium, and diamonds.

The senior legislator of the Central African Republic confirmed Russia's demands, stating that the government is obliged to prepare proposals.

The issue of the Kremlin's demands regarding payment has sparked controversy, as officials did not specify specific amounts, but indicated that it is significant for the country.

The Central African Republic has been in conflict since 2013, when predominantly Muslim insurgents seized power. In 2019, a peace agreement was signed, but six of the 14 armed groups that participated in it withdrew from the agreement. Wagner believes that those who help prevent the return of insurgents to power in 2021.

Unlike Wagner, who leads combat operations against the insurgents, the African Corps is more focused on training, which may become a pressing issue for both countries.

France, the former colonial ruler of the Central African Republic, had a significant military presence in the country since its independence in 1960, but withdrew its last troops in 2022 after a conflict with the authorities.

Tags: Russia/Politics