Global Shadows of Conflict: Unveiling Ukraine’s Covert Warfare Against Russian Influence in Sudan
In September 2023, a series of events unfolded that brought the conflict between Ukraine and the Russian-backed Wagner Group to a new frontier — Sudan. Reports emerged, pointing to Ukrainian special forces being likely responsible for attacks on the Wagner-backed Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, using first-person view (FPV) drones like the DJI Mavic 3. This development was a significant shift in the theater of operations, indicating that the repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine conflict were resonating far beyond their immediate borders.
The context of these events dates back to 2019 when Russia, alongside the Wagner Group, played a direct role in a Sudanese coup, supporting the conflict through arms supply. Notably, the Wagner Group supplied surface-to-air missiles to the RSF. A high-level Sudanese source noted that approximately 90% of RSF’s weapons were supplied by Wagner, a relationship that seemingly continued despite significant leadership losses within Wagner.
This series of drone strikes and ground operations directed against the RSF in Sudan had characteristics of Ukrainian-style drone attacks, notably the use of drones swooping directly into targets, a tactic not common in the African region. Video footage obtained by various sources showed the involvement of commercially available drones, which are widely used by Ukrainian forces. These drones were seen executing precise attacks on RSF weapons and equipment believed to be supplied by Wagner.
The involvement of Ukrainian forces in Sudan aligns with a statement from HUR Chief Kyrylo Budanov made in May 2023, vowing to destroy Russian war criminals anywhere in the world. This sentiment was echoed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who, during an impromptu meeting with the head of the Sudanese Sovereign Council, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, discussed the common security challenges posed by illegal armed groups financed by Russia.
However, it’s important to note that the Ukrainian government has not officially claimed responsibility for these attacks, and independent verification of Ukraine’s direct involvement in these operations remains uncertain. Multiple sources, including US officials, expressed surprise at the allegations of a Ukrainian operation in Sudan, highlighting the complex and opaque nature of these incidents.
In essence, the situation in Sudan reflects a broader geopolitical struggle, where Ukraine’s fight against Russian influence has extended beyond its borders, representing a new dimension in the ongoing conflict.