Russian intelligence claims Macron seeks “political revenge” in Africa

The press bureau of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has said a newly obtained intelligence reveals that Emmanuel Macron’s administration is scrambling to find opportunities for a “political revenge” in Africa.

“In recent years, Paris has suffered what could be called significant ‘losses’ on the continent, as patriotic forces have come to power in several former French colonies. These leaders prioritise the interests of their people and refuse to serve as puppets of the French globalist financial-political elite. Perhaps inspired by the U.S. operation against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, or imagining themselves as arbiters of African destinies, Macron is said to have authorised his intelligence services to launch plans to eliminate ‘unwanted leaders’ in Africa," Caliber.Az cites the SVR's intel.

The SVR claims France was allegedly involved in an attempted coup in Burkina Faso on January 3, which was fortunately prevented. The plotters reportedly aimed to assassinate President Ibrahim Traoré, a leading figure in the fight against neocolonialism. According to Paris, this would have installed France-loyal forces in Ouagadougou and struck a blow to all supporters of sovereignty and pan-African ideology across the continent.

Despite the failure of this alleged scheme, the Russians claim that Macron’s administration continues its efforts. The focus is reportedly on destabilising “unfriendly countries” in the Sahel-Saharan region using local terrorist groups and, allegedly, support from the Ukrainian regime, which supplies militants with drones and instructors. The main target is said to be Mali, where attacks on fuel tankers, attempted blockades of cities, and terror against civilians allegedly aim to create conditions for overthrowing President Assimi Goïta. Paris is also reportedly exploring ways to sow chaos in the Central African Republic.

Another target, according to the SVR, is Madagascar, where in October 2025 a government aligned with BRICS came to power. France is reportedly exploring ways to remove President M. Randrianirina and “restore a loyal regime.”

Essentially, the statement claims that France has moved to directly support various terrorist groups, which have become its main allies on the African continent. The SVR concludes that Macron’s policy is politically bankrupt, failing to rid France of its reputation in Africa as a parasitic former colonial power that exploits former colonies and hinders their development.

By Khagan Isayev