State media reported that Russian military trainers, along with an air defense system and other equipment, have arrived in Niger, marking a significant development in the West African nation’s security relations with Moscow.
Niger’s military government, following the expulsion of French forces aiding in counterinsurgency efforts across several Sahel nations, agreed in January to bolster military cooperation with Russia.
Tele Sahel, a broadcaster, aired footage of a Russian transport plane touching down at Niamey airport, announcing the arrival of “the latest military equipment and military instructors” from Russia’s Ministry of Defence.
The report indicated that Russia would assist in “installing an air defense system to ensure complete control of our airspace.”
According to state-run Radio Television du Niger’s Facebook page, 100 Russian military instructors have landed in Niamey.
Russia’s motivation, which emphasizes its status as a friendly nation without a colonial past in Africa, is seen as an effort to increase its influence on the continent.
Niger, grappling with severe poverty, had previously collaborated with Western powers in combating insurgency in the Sahel but has shifted towards closer ties with Russia since a coup last July ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum.
In March, Niger terminated its military agreement with the United States, which allowed Pentagon personnel to operate from two bases, including a drone base constructed at a cost exceeding $100 million.
Despite the presence of approximately 1,000 American troops in Niger, their activities have been restricted since the coup.
General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the head of the military government, engaged in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin in March to discuss “global strategic cooperation” against “current threats,” although details were not disclosed.
Niger, along with neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso—also governed by military leaders post-coups—has formed a joint force to combat ongoing armed rebellions in the region.
Violence has escalated since the coups, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis in the Sahel region, where over three million people were displaced as of March, according to the International Organization for Migration.
