Russia Acknowledges Private Security Firms Operating in Sudan

The Russian Foreign Ministry has confirmed that private Russian security companies are present in Sudan, providing training to the country’s military and law enforcement, amid ongoing mass demonstrations. Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova emphasized on January 23 that these firms operate independently of the Russian state.

Her remarks followed reports in the British press suggesting that Russian mercenaries were assisting Sudanese authorities in suppressing protests. Zakharova denied these claims, stating that the firms’ role is strictly limited to military and security training.

Sudan has been rocked by daily protests since December 19, initially over fuel and commodity shortages but increasingly demanding an end to President Omar al-Bashir’s 30-year rule. The Guardian reported that the government has cracked down on journalists, detaining several during coverage of the unrest.

Data from the Russian Federal Security Service indicates a rise in Russians traveling to Sudan, with around 200 arriving in the last three months of 2017, compared to a previous peak of 76. Sudan’s oil minister, Azhari Abdel Qader, also noted that Sudan received aid offers from the UAE, Russia, and Turkey, including fuel and wheat, although it remains unclear whether Russia’s support will be accepted.

Private Russian military contractors have previously been active in other conflict zones, such as Syria, where reports indicate some have been killed in clashes with U.S.-led forces, though details remain limited.