Russia is reportedly establishing a new "Africa Corps" to replace the "Wagner" Private Military Company (PMC) with the aim of rekindling Cold War-era influence on the continent, as per Bloomberg. A source close to the Russian Ministry of Defense indicates plans to deploy five brigades totaling 20,000 personnel in Burkina Faso, Libya, Mali, the Central African Republic, and Niger by mid-year. However, uncertainties persist, given the ongoing need to reinforce troops in Ukraine.

A senior adviser to the President of the Central African Republic, shared that the number of Russian troops in the country has doubled since the death of Prigozhin, reaching around two thousand soldiers. Plans for a military base are also mentioned to accommodate the increasing presence.

Journalists highlight the strengthening military cooperation between Russia and Sahel countries. If successful, this move could significantly alter the geopolitical and diplomatic balance of power, especially with the withdrawal of French troops, according to Jay Pham, a former US special envoy to the Sahel.

Molly Fee, the US Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, raises concerns about the potential threat posed by Russian troops in Niger, where the US has a substantial base.