Kyiv, Ukraine and N'Djamena, - In a recent development, a CNN investigation has suggested that Ukrainian special services may have been involved in a series of drone strikes and a ground operation near Sudan's capital, targeting a militia reportedly backed by the Russian Wagner group.

This raises concerns about the ripple effects of Russia's invasion of Ukraine spreading far beyond the initial frontlines.

According to a Ukrainian military source, the operation was attributed to a "non-Sudanese military," and when pressed about Kyiv's involvement, they hinted that "Ukrainian special services were likely responsible." The operation primarily targeted the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF), believed to be receiving assistance from Wagner in its struggle for control of Sudan.

While CNN could not independently confirm Ukraine's role, video footage revealed signs of Ukrainian-style drone attacks. The use of commercially available drones, including a DJI MAVIC 3, and the tactics employed, such as drones directly targeting their objectives, were deemed unusual for Sudan and the broader African region

Notably, Ukraine has neither officially claimed nor denied responsibility for these attacks. After CNN's report, Andrii Yusov, a representative of Ukraine's Defence Intelligence, remained tight-lipped, stating, "We can neither confirm nor deny this."

While there was skepticism among high-level Sudanese military sources and some US officials about Ukrainian involvement, CNN's investigation has geo-located the attack sites, suggesting their authenticity. These attacks occurred shortly after a large arms convoy facilitated by Wagner reached Sudan, signaling an expansion of Russian influence in Africa.

The Russian Wagner group, known for its involvement in Moscow's foreign military campaigns, has faced allegations of atrocities. In this context, the use of weaponized commercial drones capable of exploding on impact marks a concerning development in Africa.

The RSF, a significant presence in Sudan's capital, has been targeted frequently by the Sudanese military in recent months. Wagner's role in arming the RSF has been well-documented, and the group's weapons supply routes have been traced through various points, including Russian bases in Syria and Libya.

The death of Wagner's leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, in a plane crash has raised questions about the group's future in Africa. Some believe the Kremlin aims to integrate Wagner into Russia's defense ministry. Nevertheless, the Kremlin has denied any knowledge of Wagner's support for the RSF.

Amid these developments, Ukraine has been strengthening its ties with African countries, emphasizing its commitment to counter Russia's influence on the continent. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stated their strategy is not to replace Russia but to free Africa from its grip.