Who is them? The general population? Oh my sweet summer child. The Russians just pay more to the higher ups in those countries. They do not give a flying fuck about the people. They want access to the various resources in the region.

In order to continue to access the various resources they need those governments to be stable and not get coup'd, like just fucking happened. That means more investment, more leniency, and more autonomy.

Russia doesn't have the power or resources to actually be a ruthless imperial power. They have to negotiate, which is far better than France or AFRICOM.

Your vulgar cynicism is noted, but how about you stop assuming everything other than the horrible status quo is worse?

You want to get rid off a corrupt government by using … checks notes. … your own corrupt government? There will always be another rat that’s willing to work with the Russians which the Russians in turn will support in taking over from your guys.

By overthrowing the government, like just happened lol

And guess what? Because Russia is weaker, poorer, and forced to compete against great powers like France? That's suddenly a lot easier.