By Ebi Kesiena
According to state television in the African country, Niger confirm the arrival of fresh Russian military advisors and equipment in the country, amidst its expressed desire for US forces to depart.
The initial contingent of approximately 100 Russian advisors, accompanied by air defense systems, touched down in Niger recently.
Subsequently, two military transport planes arrived last Saturday, as reported by Tele Sahel. Over the past month, Russia has dispatched three cargo planes laden with military supplies and instructional personnel.
The Africa Corps, viewed as successors to the Wagner paramilitary group in Africa, confirmed the arrival of instructors through a communication on the group’s Telegram account. Furthermore, it was announced that additional trainers, equipment, and provisions arrived on Saturday.
Meanwhile, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin recently noted the presence of Russian troops at a Nigerien air base near Niamey airport, a site shared with US troops.
The military regime in Niger, established following a coup in July 2023, expelled French troops stationed in the country and renounced a military cooperation pact with the United States, citing its unilateral imposition by Washington. In April, an agreement was reached for the withdrawal of approximately 1,000 US soldiers, with ongoing negotiations between the US and Niger concerning this process.
However, US forces operate a significant drone base near Agadez, constructed at a cost of around $100 million. Niger’s military leadership has turned towards closer ties with Russia, a trend similar with neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, both governed by military coup leaders and contending with insurgent groups.
