In a world grappling with geopolitical complexities, the recent attack on Niger’s main airport has underscored the intricate interplay of military alliances and the ongoing struggle against extremism. With Russian forces stepping in to assist Niger’s military during this significant threat, the incident not only highlights the collaborative efforts in countering terrorism but also reflects the shifting dynamics in international relations, particularly in Africa.
Russian soldiers played a crucial role in repelling an assault claimed by the ISIL (ISIS) armed group at the Diori Hamani International Airport in Niger’s capital, Niamey, last week. According to a statement from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “The attack was repelled through the joint efforts of the Russian Ministry of Defence’s African Corps and the Nigerien armed forces.” This operation resulted in the deaths of 20 attackers, which included a French national, and four Nigerien soldiers sustained injuries.
In the aftermath, Niger’s military indicated that “Russian partners” were integral in successfully defending against this rare attack on the capital. Following the incident, Niger’s state media reported the capture of at least 11 fighters. Moscow formally condemned the attack, emphasizing that it exemplifies the ongoing threat posed by extremist groups in the region. A statement from Russia noted, “A similar attack took place in September 2024 on the international airport in the capital of Mali,” pointing to a pattern of escalating violence that could involve external forces providing logistics and support to insurgents.
Niger’s military chief, Abdourahamane Tchiani, paid a visit to the Russian military base in Niamey, expressing “personal gratitude for a high level of professionalism” demonstrated by Russian forces during the defense of the airport. ISIL had previously claimed responsibility for the assault, which they described as a “surprise and coordinated attack.” Footage released by ISIL-affiliated media showed numerous attackers armed with assault rifles, setting fire to one aircraft and fleeing on motorcycles.
Ulf Laessing, head of the Sahel programme at Germany’s Konrad Adenauer Foundation, noted that the sophistication of the attack, which may have included the use of drones, suggests potential inside assistance for the assailants. This development, combined with previous successful assaults, has seemingly bolstered the group’s confidence to target more strategically significant sites.
In a contentious twist, Niger’s military initially pointed fingers at Benin, France, and Ivory Coast for allegedly sponsoring the airport attack; however, these claims were made without supporting evidence. Both Benin and Ivory Coast have dismissed the allegations as improbable, while France has yet to respond formally. Niger, a former French colony, has seen France maintain military ties until 2023.
Russia, in contrast to their limited past commentary on military operations in the Sahel, has intensified its efforts to forge military and political collaborations across Africa amidst growing isolation due to its conflict in Ukraine. Reports indicate that Russian military personnel or advisors have also been deployed in several other countries in the region, including Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, the Central African Republic, and Libya. The Russian African Corps aims to continue combating terrorism and enhancing regional stability across the Sahel, where Niger continues to face challenges from Al-Qaeda-linked groups and ISIL affiliates.
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