TL/DR –
In early April, about 100 Russian instructors and an air-defense system arrived in Niger as part of Russia’s new paramilitary structure, Africa Corps, which replaces the Wagner Group. This comes as Niger rejects military ties with the US following the withdrawal of troops from France, which used to lead foreign counterterrorism efforts in West Africa. The US’ loss of two bases in Niger is seen as a blow to counterterrorism and broader security in the Sahel, and discussions are underway with coastal West African nations for potential future partnerships.
Russian Military Presence Emerges in Niger
In early April, a sudden influx of roughly 100 Russian instructors and an air-defense system were reported in Niger. As per Russia’s state-owned news outlet Ria Novosti, these personnel are affiliated with the newly formed Africa Corps, a paramilitary structure replacing the Wagner Group led by the plane crash victim, Yevgeny V. Prigozhin.
Niger’s refusal of military ties with the U.S. ensued soon after France, the former colonial power perceived as a pariah, withdrew its troops.
A total of 1000 American personnel are stationed in Niger, with nearly 400 at an air base in Niamey and the remainder at U.S. Air Base 201 in Agadez. Post-coup, Agadez-based troops have largely been inactive, with the exception of a few MQ-9 Reaper drones allocated for American personnel protection.
The shutdown of these bases impacts counterterrorism efforts and wider security in the Sahel, admit U.S. officials. Preliminary discussions with coastal West African nations like Ghana, Togo and Benin are also in progress. “Those bases were crucial for our strategic access and influence,” remarked Gen. Michael E. Langley, the head of the U.S. Africa Command.
The future access of the U.S. to the Agadez base remains uncertain. There are speculations about heightened Russian involvement if Niger deepens its ties with the Kremlin.
Reporting contribution by Ruth Maclean from Dakar, Senegal.
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