Russia sends military instructors to Equatorial Guinea

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.

Reports of Russian troops deployed in the country first surfaced in August.

Russia, which has been seeking to gain more influence in Africa, has in recent years sent thousands of mercenaries to West and Central Africa to protect military regimes and help them fight insurgents.