April 12, 2024 (EIRNS)—Reflecting the growing cooperation between Russia and Niger, a contingent of Russian military specialists arrived in the country this week. They will train local forces on combatting terrorism. “Now, the African corps here will be building relationships and jointly forming and training the Nigerien army. We have brought with us a training and material base to train various specialists. We have a lot of experience in combating terrorism. And we are here to share this experience with our friends,” a member of the Russian contingent told Sputnik.
Reporting on military contingent landing in Niger’s capital of Niamey, a Niger state broadcaster commented that their arrival followed talks on March 28 between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Abdourahmane Tchiani, the chairman of Niger’s National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland. Security cooperation was one of several points of cooperation they discussed. Russian military specialists will also install an air defense system, and train Nigerien military personnel to effectively operate the system.
Earlier this year, the Nigerien government forces French forces stationed in Niger on a so-called anti-terror mission to withdraw. The Niger government has also canceled the agreement allowing U.S. troops to operate a drone base.
