Russian weapons and troops have arrived in Niger, weeks after the military junta ended a U.S. military cooperation deal. "The latest generation of anti-aircraft defense systems" and 100 Russian military instructors landed in Niamey to train local forces, Nigerien and Russian state TV reported. "This means that Russia is returning to Africa," an RIA Novosti correspondent said at the airport as crews unloaded military equipment
This is interesting but not surprising...a lot more is happening behind the scenes. But hey, Niger like any other African state has the sovereign right to fall in love with whosoever it fancies. If a relationship with Russia works for the people of Niger, then let it be so. If it fails, too bad. But what are the options?
Hi Larry, so we can really conclude the real reason why Macron made visits to the Kremlin soon after Ukraine was invaded… seems it was to beg Putin not to expand his conflict to France’s neo-colonies in WA???? Which seems to have been declined… no wonder Niamey’s new leaders are really kicking out every neo-colonialist and arming themselves to the teeth….
The withdrawal and subsequent replacement of American military presence with Russian counterparts in Niger undoubtedly raises significant concerns. However, considering the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the extensive sanctions imposed on Russia, it is remarkable that Russia has the surplus ammunition necessary for a military arrangement with Niger. Speculation previously suggested that Iran and North Korea were supplying arms to Russia amid its conflict in Ukraine, implying a potential reduction in its military capabilities. The logical inference drawn from this new arrangement is the evident strategic interest it affords Russia in securing mineral rights within Niger, which could potentially augment its war efforts.
David Mulabi
3w
So Niger has not decolonised as they were posturing. And as i have been saying, you can not replace one colonialist with another and you call it progress!!!
Replacing one problem with another. I thought the aim was for Africa to be free of external foreign policy interest. We should be striving our way forward which puts African children's interests at the centre. How does Russia trying to show USA up the benefit Niger?
Niger will soon realise what they are upto. Their minerals have to pay for Russia's services/ mercenaries. Then Niger men will find themselves recruited to fight in Ukraine. Expect high civillian deaths, human rights abuses as the Russian army tries to prove itself that it can fight the jihadists in Niger.
Risper Pete
3w
Another phase of the scramble for Africa. Our continent is the only one with no country to scramble for eben the tiniest part of the world. French is still keeping Mayotte, an island on Indian ocean which is part of an African island country.
We hope we as Africans don't get caught up in the crossfire
CNN International Correspondent
3wIs replacing France/America with Russia good for Niger?