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The Russian Federation is actively expanding its influence over Africa’s information space by using state media to spread Kremlin propaganda, according to the Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR) of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense.
As reported by Ukrinform, HUR stated on Facebook that Kremlin narratives are being aggressively promoted through state-run media outlets—particularly the TASS news agency and RT television channel. Currently, Russian propaganda media broadcast in over 40 African countries in six different languages.
According to HUR, starting in June 2025, Russia began translating content into Portuguese for markets in Mozambique and Angola. By the end of the year, broadcasts in Amharic are expected to launch, targeting audiences in Ethiopia.
RT, in particular, has shown significant growth in its African presence: over the past two years, the number of African partner TV channels has doubled to 60. In parallel, RT is implementing training programs for local journalists—more than 1,000 media workers underwent training based on Russian standards last year. Since June 2025, in-person training sessions have begun in Addis Ababa.
The Kremlin also plans to expand these programs to other African countries. To that end, Russia has started recruiting personnel to lead new “correspondent offices” and coordinate educational centers.
The TASS news agency is also expanding its presence on the continent. Plans are underway to open correspondent bureaus in Ethiopia, Senegal, Algeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and other African nations. According to Ukrainian intelligence, personnel selection for these structures is being overseen by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB).
“Russian propaganda is a global threat aimed at one goal—territorial, resource, and cultural expansion by the aggressor,” said Andriy Yusov, a representative of Ukraine’s military intelligence.
As previously reported, HUR intercepted an order from a field commander of Russia’s 155th Separate Marine Brigade of the Pacific Fleet regarding the treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war.
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