Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday about bolstering security cooperation. This conversation follows a January agreement to strengthen military ties after Niger’s July 2023 coup.
Niger, a key Western partner in fighting jihadism in the Sahel region, has shifted its focus towards Russia for military support. The communique from Niger stated the need for “strengthening security cooperation” to address ongoing threats. Additionally, discussions involved “multi-sector and global strategic cooperation,” hinting at a broader partnership.
This move comes with friction between Niger and the West. The U.S. has limited troop movements and aid since the coup. A recent U.S. delegation failed to secure a meeting with Tiani. Niger has also denounced Western military cooperation, severing ties with former colonial power France.
Despite this shift, Niger remains involved in regional efforts. The country, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, announced a joint force to combat jihadist insurgencies. Notably, these three nations previously declared their intention to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in January.
