Ukraine’s incursion into Russia’s Kursk region disrupted Russian mercenaries’ plans in Burkina Faso, as many fighters were pulled out to boost Moscow’s defenses. Viktor Yermolaev, head of the Medvedi paramilitary unit, confirmed the withdrawal but did not disclose the number of fighters. The Bear Brigade, closely linked to the Russian state, had around 300 fighters in Burkina Faso before the incursion.
A Western security source reports that approximately 100 fighters of the Bear Brigade left Burkina Faso. They were believed to be providing security for junta leader Ibrahim Traore, who took power in 2022 after a succession of coups in West Africa. The group’s exit is not expected to have a significant impact on the ground in Burkina Faso, as they mainly focused on training and security for political leadership.
Yermolaev stated that his group is independent of the Russian defense ministry but always helps when needed. The Bear Brigade’s operations in Burkina Faso were part of Russia’s broader military presence in the region, which is now coordinated through an entity known as the Africa Corps.
