Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service has issued a sharply worded formal accusation against the French government, alleging that President Emmanuel Macron authorized intelligence operations aimed at eliminating what it described as “undesirable leaders” in several African countries. The claims, contained in an official statement released on February 2, represent a significant escalation in the geopolitical rivalry between Moscow and Paris over influence in Africa.
According to the Russian intelligence service, the French administration is seeking a “political comeback” on the African continent after losing influence amid rising anti-French sentiment and the growing authority of nationalist and military-led governments in former French colonies.
The statement alleged that President Macron authorized French intelligence agencies to develop plans targeting African leaders whose policies diverge from Paris’s strategic preferences. The operations were described as an attempt to reassert French influence following setbacks in multiple states and to weaken what the statement referred to as “patriotic forces.”
Alleged Incidents and Targets
The allegations, which have not been independently verified and originate solely from Russian intelligence, list several specific countries and scenarios:
Burkina Faso: The Russian intelligence service claimed that France was involved in a coup attempt on January 3, 2026, aimed at overthrowing President Ibrahim Traoré. According to the allegation, the plan included the assassination of Traoré and the installation of a government aligned with French interests. Burkina Faso’s authorities have publicly confirmed that they thwarted a coup attempt in early January.
Mali: The statement alleged that France, with assistance from Ukrainian actors, is cooperating with local armed groups to destabilize the country and ultimately remove President Assimi Goïta. The methods cited include alleged support to militants through drone technology and training.
Madagascar: Russian intelligence claimed that France is planning efforts to undermine President Michael Randrianirina, who assumed office in October 2025 and has pursued closer ties with the BRICS bloc.
Central African Republic: The country was also cited as a potential target for destabilization, though the statement provided fewer operational details.
The Russian intelligence service further alleged cooperation between France and Ukraine in supporting militant groups in the Sahel, including the supply of unmanned aerial vehicles and instructors, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions surrounding Ukraine’s role in African security affairs.
French and International Responses
The French government has consistently rejected similar accusations, describing them as disinformation and part of Russia’s broader information warfare strategy. Paris maintains that its reduced military and diplomatic presence in Africa is focused on counterterrorism cooperation and support for regional stability. As of February 2, French officials had not issued a specific response to the latest claims.
International observers note that the accusations come amid shifting geopolitical alignments in the Sahel and West Africa, where several states have moved away from traditional Western partnerships, particularly with France, and toward alternative partners, including Russia.
Context of the Dispute
The allegations highlight the intensifying competition for influence in Africa, a region where France has long played a dominant political, economic, and military role. In recent years, several francophone countries have severed or downgraded ties with Paris, citing dissatisfaction with legacy colonial influence and military interventions. Russia has simultaneously expanded its presence through diplomatic engagement and security partnerships, particularly in the Sahel.
