The US-Russia battle for influence in Africa plays out in Central African Republic

The tensions in Central African Republic are a window into a larger battle playing out across the continent.

Russia has emerged as the security partner of choice for a growing number of governments in the region.

The U.S. , which has been largely disengaged from the region, is attempting to maintain a presence and stymie Russian gains.

The U.S. had been pushing Central African Republic to find an alternative to Wagner for years .

A December 2022 private meeting sought ways to improve security without the mercenaries but yielded little progress.

The more assertive approach came as it faced new setbacks and tried to rework agreements in the region.

Rights groups say a lack of transparency about Bancroft ’s operations has fostered an atmosphere of distrust.

Russia 's ambassador to Central African Republic says Bancroft 's presence had no effect on cooperation with Russia ’s military.

Several American citizens were detained and had their passports confiscated, diplomat says.

Russia is trying to rebrand the mercenaries, creating Africa Corps , a parallel group that could absorb Wagner .