Russia has reportedly sent up to 200 troops to Equatorial Guinea to protect the presidency, as it continues to expand its presence in Africa. Media reports say that the Russians are training elite guards in the country’s two main cities – the capital Malabo and Bata.

Russia has deployed up to 200 military instructors to Equatorial Guinea in recent weeks to protect the presidency, sources told Reuters, showing Moscow is expanding its footprint in West Africa despite a recent defeat in Mali.

Russia has deployed around 200 military instructors to Equatorial Guinea in recent weeks to protect the presidency. ・Russia has deployed around 200 military instructors to Equatorial Guinea to protect the presidency.

Equatorial Guinea qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations without kicking a ball after Togo fall to a 1-0 defeat in Liberia.

Equatorial Guinea secured their spot in the 2025 AFCON, set to be held in Morocco next year, after a goalless draw against the group leader, Algeria.

While Algeria have already written their name in the book of qualified nations at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, Equatorial Guinea could join