THE US State Department is said to be planning a delay in imposing new sanctions on the Wagner Group’s activities in Africa, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on June 24.
An unnamed official, who spoke with the WSJ, revealed that the State Department had initially intended to announce sancti
ons against the mercenary group for its involvement in gold mining operations in Africa.
The Wagner Group is reported to have deployed troops in several African countries, including the Central African Republic, where it has supported mining activities in recent years. US officials have previously stated that profits from mineral extractions in Africa are likely used to fund illicit Russian state-sponsored endeavours and provide resources for Russia’s conflict with Ukraine.
An individual familiar with the plans informed the WSJ that the delay in announcing sanctions is aimed at avoiding the perception of taking sides. ‘Washington does not want to appear to be taking sides,’ the source explained.
The decision to postpone the sanctions against the Wagner Group’s activities in Africa reflects a strateg
ic approach by the US State Department to carefully navigate the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. By taking additional time to assess the situation and consider the potential ramifications, the US aims to ensure a fair and balanced approach in addressing the issue.
