Niger’s military government strengthens cooperation with Moscow following expulsion of French forces
In a significant development reflecting the evolving geopolitical landscape in West Africa, Russian military instructors have landed in Niger, accompanied by advanced air defense systems and assorted military equipment. The move underscores Niger’s deepening security ties with Moscow, as announced by state television late Thursday.
The decision to bolster military cooperation with Russia comes on the heels of Niger’s expulsion of French forces, previously aiding in the fight against jihadist rebellions across neighboring nations. Tele Sahel, the state broadcaster, aired footage showcasing the arrival of a Russian transport plane at Niamey airport on Wednesday night, heralding the delivery of “the latest military equipment and military instructors from the Russian Defense Ministry.”
The report elaborated on Russia’s commitment to fortify Niger’s defense capabilities, highlighting plans to install an air defense system aimed at securing the nation’s airspace. “We are here to train the Niger army and help it use the equipment that has just arrived. The equipment is for different military specialties,” remarked one of the Russian instructors, underlining the multifaceted nature of the collaboration.
General Abdourahamane Tiani, head of Niger’s military government, engaged in a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin in late March. Discussions during the call centered on security cooperation and “global strategic cooperation” to counter prevailing threats. This dialogue signifies a strategic shift for Niger, once a crucial ally of the West in combating jihadist elements in Western and Central Africa.
Since the ousting of the elected president in a military coup last year, Niger has gradually turned to Moscow for security assistance. Additionally, Niger has joined forces with neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, both governed by military regimes post-coups, to form a joint coalition aimed at combating insurgent jihadist groups.
The presence of approximately 1,000 US troops in Niger has been notable, albeit with restricted movements following last year’s coup. Washington, in response, has scaled back assistance to the government amidst the changing political landscape.
Niger, despite being one of the world’s poorest countries, emerges as a pivotal player in regional security dynamics, with its strategic decisions reflecting broader shifts in alliances and partnerships. The arrival of Russian military personnel and equipment underscores the nation’s evolving security calculus, with implications reverberating across the West African region.