Niger’s military regime, established after the July coup, declared the termination of two European Union (EU) security and defense missions in the country. This decision comes as the regime seeks to redefine its international alliances, notably welcoming a Russian delegation to Niamey amidst the dissolution of ties with Western partners following the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum.
The Nigerien Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a press release announcing the termination of the agreement between Niger and the EU concerning the European civilian mission “EUCAP Sahel Niger,” which has been active since 2012. This mission, based in Niamey and comprising 120 Europeans, has been providing support to internal security forces, Nigerien authorities, and non-governmental entities.
Additionally, the ministry stated the withdrawal of Niger’s consent for the deployment of an EU military partnership mission named “EUMPM,” launched in February to assist Niger in combating armed terrorist groups, particularly prevalent in the western and southeastern parts of the country due to jihadist violence.
Concurrently, a Russian delegation, headed by Deputy Minister of Defense Colonel-General Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, arrived in Niamey for discussions with the military authorities. This visit marks the first official engagement by a Russian government official since the July coup, signifying a shift in diplomatic relations between Niger and its international partners.
Following the meeting between the Russian delegation and General Abdourahamane Tiani, head of the Nigerien military regime, both parties signed agreements aimed at strengthening military cooperation. Niger has also sought closer ties with neighboring Burkina Faso and Mali, nations likewise governed by military authorities following coups.
Recently, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali announced their withdrawal from the G5 Sahel anti-jihadist organization, a move effective since November 29, indicating a shift in regional alliances. These countries have opted to form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to enhance cooperation, aligning their interests amidst shared challenges of jihadist violence.
In a series of decisions mirroring Niger’s approach, Burkina and Mali suspended French media and secured the withdrawal of French troops. These actions follow a trajectory similar to Mali last year and demonstrate a concerted effort by these nations to recalibrate their international engagements in the face of ongoing security concerns and changing regional dynamics.
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