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Stories (5)
Russia in Africa
Summary: - Two Russians went on trial in Luanda accused of orchestrating anti-government protests, running a disinformation campaign, and trying to influence Angola’s next presidential election. - The indictment describes an operation aimed at shifting Angola’s political direction, tied to broader Russian influence efforts. - Angola, rich in oil and diamonds, has long been of strategic interest to Russia, but ties have cooled as Angola pivots toward the West; Russian firms li
2026-05-24Angola's Shift to Strategic Influence in Dipl
Angola aims to shift its foreign policy from “assertive diplomacy” to “strategic influence,” adopting a proactive, forward-looking, and transformative role on the global stage. Foreign Minister Téte António argues for Angolan diplomacy to be more than reactive, positioning the country as an active influencer in international dynamics and a balancing factor for peace in Africa. Key points: - Strategic shift: from participatory presence to proactive, transformative global enga
2026-05-24Angola's AU Chairmanship: A Leadership Test
Angola, under President Lourenço, aims to leverage its AU chairmanship to advance Africa-wide priorities in four core areas: energy/natural resource governance, transport and connectivity to boost intra-African trade, peace and security (notably DRC mediation), and sustainable development (agriculture and the blue economy) to curb migration. The country seeks to translate its oil surplus into continental energy investments while promoting renewable projects, and to use its Lo
2026-05-24Europe, Angola and the UAE
Angola is central to Europe’s strategy for the Lobito Corridor, energy security, and regional development, while reshaping its ties with the UAE and other emerging partners. Key points: - CEPA (August 2025): Angola and the UAE signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, signaling deeper economic integration with investment pledges and sector MoUs. Trade aims to rise from about $3bn in 2023 to $10bn by 2033, boosting Angola as a logistics, energy, and agribusiness
2026-05-24Turmoil in Angola
Angola’s current turmoil centers on alleged Russian interference by two Russian consultants, now on trial for organizing protests and disinformation to influence elections. The case is viewed less as a clear-cut foreign intervention and more as a battleground of competing narratives tied to internal politics and external power plays. Key points relevant to your query: - Foreign policy shift: Since 2017, President João Lourenço has pivoted Angola away from traditional Moscow
2026-05-24