Angola has sentenced two Russian nationals to prison terms for espionage and terrorism charges linked to alleged election interference and economic sabotage.The convictions come amid political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.

The defendants, Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin, were arrested in 2025 following social unrest sparked by a taxi drivers' strike over fuel prices.The riots left 22 dead and over 1,200 arrested.Prosecutors accused them of plotting to destabilize Angola by supporting the opposition Unita party and seizing economic assets.Carlos Tomé, an Angolan journalist, received a suspended sentence, while Francisco de Oliveira was acquitted.The case highlights Angola's shift towards Western infrastructure support, including a $550m US loan for railway modernization.

The Russian embassy did not comment on the charges, which reflect broader geopolitical tensions as Angola navigates its relationship with both Russia and the West.