Title: Prigozhin’s successors in Africa: who are Yunus-Bek Evkourov and Andreï Averianov?
Introduction :
Since the death of Yevgeni Prigozhin, former boss of the private military company Wagner, two men have stood out as potential successors in Africa: Yunous-Bek Evkourov, Russian Deputy Minister of Defense, and Andreï Averianov, general of the GRU , Russian military intelligence. Their increased involvement on the continent makes them the main organizers of the post-Prigozhin period and raises questions about their role and intentions in Africa.
A key role in relations with African governments:
Younous-Bek Evkourov and Andreï Averianov are increasing their trips to Africa, meeting Malian, Burkinabe, Nigerien and other political leaders. Their presence aims to ensure the continuity of relations between Russia and these countries, thus showing Moscow’s commitment to supporting local governments. These visits allowed the two Russians to position themselves as successors to Prigozhin and to maintain Wagner’s influence and presence in Africa.
The strengths of Iounous-Bek Evkourov:
Younous-Bek Evkourov benefits from a reputation as a solid military strategist and a background as a peacemaker and negotiator. His management of the Russian republic of Ingushetia, renowned for its violence, made it safer, without resorting solely to repression. This diplomatic finesse made him a respected interlocutor of Wagner’s mercenaries and a trusted face for African regimes. The Kremlin sees in him the new link between Russia and African countries.
Andrei Averianov’s skills:
GRU General Andrei Averianov, however, is known for having led Unit 29155, which specialized in sabotage and assassination. Involved in cases such as the poisoning of former double agent Sergeï Skripal or the attempted coup in Montenegro, he is often called when it comes to making someone disappear. In Africa, it could help ensure the security of regimes in place by offering close protection services or by sharing its expertise in targeted assassinations.
Conclusion :
Younous-Bek Evkourov and Andreï Averianov are gradually establishing themselves as the successors of Yevgeni Prigojine in Africa. The former brings a peacemaking and diplomatic approach, while the latter displays darker skills in the area of sabotage and assassination. Their role within Wagner could be to maintain Russian influence on the continent and guarantee the security of the regimes in place. Their presence raises questions about Russia’s intentions in Africa and its growing geopolitical role on the continent.