Russia’s Foreign Ministry says its assistance is “in line with general efforts of the international community.” But its growing involvement has spooked Western players in the region. Senior officials tell
Newsweek the initial arms donation has expanded into front-line patrols, nationwide convoys, potential mining concessions, powwows with rebels and the suspected deployment of mercenaries. Touadéra is thought to have Russians in his presidential guard, as well as a
Russian security adviser who enjoys close access to Bangui government policymakers.