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Despite the grave consequences borne by local populations, the motivations for Russia's mercenary involvement are strategic and materialistic. The exchange with the CAR, for instance, revolves around control of gold and diamond resources. In Mali, monetary compensation is offered, allegedly around $10 million for military assistance. Additionally, the Russians are tapping into gold deposits located in southern Mali.
These mercenary actions are not merely opportunistic; they also serve Russia's broader agenda, attempting to offset sanctions and bolster its influence across Africa.