Russian military trainers arrive in Niger as relations deteriorate with the US
DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — Russian military trainers arrived this week in Niger to reinforce the country’s air defenses as the west African nation pulls away from close cooperation with the United States in counterterrorism efforts, turning instead to Russia for security.
State television in Niger on Thursday broadcast footage of Russian military trainers arriving in the country aboard a plane equipped with military supplies. Two Russian trainers were filmed in front of the plane at night wearing military uniforms, caps and face coverings.
“We are here to train the Nigerien army to use the military equipment that is here,” one of the Russian trainers said in the broadcast, speaking in French. “We are here to develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger.”
Niger’s ruling military council, known as the CNSP, has yet to order American troops out, U.S. officials have said. But the arrival of Russian forces makes it complicated for the U.S. forces, along with diplomatic and civilian personnel, to remain in the country. It also throws into doubt the future of joint Niger-U.S. counterinsurgency operations.
Related articles
Future of MLB's Tampa Bay Rays to come into focus with key meetings on $1.3B stadium project
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — The future of the Tampa Bay Rays is about to come into clearer focus as2024-05-09Fulton County officials say by law they don't control Fani Willis' spending in Trump case
ATLANTA (AP) — Leaders of Georgia’s Fulton County testified Friday before a special state Senate com2024-05-09Chet Holmgren and Lu Dort anchor elite Thunder defense heading into second round of NBA playoffs
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The young Oklahoma City Thunder finally are drawing national attention with a h2024-05-09- RIYADH, April 30 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia announced the plan to launch a Riyadh-based multi-asset in2024-05-09
Alves granted €1m bail after sexual assault conviction
Former FC Barcelona and Brazil full back Dani Alves is to be released from jail after a court in Bar2024-05-09Mexican forensic examiners are at a site in Baja California where 3 bodies were reportedly found
MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexican forensic examiners were at a remote site in Baja California on Friday whe2024-05-09
atest comment