Russian military trainers arrive in Niger as relations deteriorate with the US
Time:2024-05-22 04:18:11 Source:sportViews(143)
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.
You may also like
- Kristin Cavallari, 37, ignores critics of her age
- Eleanor Coppola dies at 87
- Benteler Steel plans $21 million expansion, will create 49 jobs
- Arizona abortion law: Trump pushes state lawmakers to remedy ruling
- Macron is making a surprise trip to New Caledonia amid deadly unrest and indigenous frustration
- Three killed in Ethiopia shootout as regional rebellions spill into the capital
- Study finds many favor a strong, undemocratic leader
- Chaldean patriarch returns to Baghdad after nine months of self
- Kate Hudson hits the stage to debut songs from her new album Glorious at star