Russia’s Shadow War in Africa

Russia is quietly expanding its influence in the Sahel, shifting the balance of power in Africa.

After military regimes in Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso drove out Western troops, Russia is exploiting the resulting power vacuum for its geopolitical advance. The Sahel region – once a place of flourishing trade and culture – is now characterised by terror, repression and power struggles. This hard-hitting investigative documentary – filmed under life-threatening conditions – gives voice to those who dare to speak out. Their testimonies reveal the hidden mechanisms behind Russia’s rise in the region and the consequences for those caught in the crossfire.