Nigerien TV reports Russian instructors and air defence systems to be operating there

The state television of Niger reported that Russian military instructors arrived in the country on a plane loaded with military equipment.

Source: Radio Liberty, citing RTN, Niger’s state television

Details: The instructors arrived after the junta and Russian leader Vladimir Putin reached an agreement to strengthen cooperation. 

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In the channel’s report, a man in camouflage uniform said they arrived to train the Nigerien army and develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger. 

RTN also reported that Russia has agreed to install an air defence system in Niger.

Background:

• The military coup in Niger occurred on 26 July 2023. The democratically elected president of the country, Mohamed Bazoum, has since remained under arrest. 
• A former French colony, Niger was a partner of France and the United States in security matters. These states used it as a base to combat the Islamist insurgent movement in the Sahel region of West and Central Africa.
• In December 2023, the military junta that came to power in Niger announced the termination of its military partnership with the European Union and the withdrawal of permission for the deployment of the EU mission in the country.
• In March, the United States warned Niger against the potential development of its ties with Russia and Iran.

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