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. |
Hong Kong's domestic workers harness their voices through poetryFederal tax collection in Brazil reached BRL 174.31 bi in SeptemberUS China news update: USA renews warning it would defend Philippines after China spatO.J. Simpson, football star turned celebrity murder defendant, dies at 76Savings accounts have net withdrawals of BRL 5.83 bi in SeptemberTaranaki DHB slammed for inadequate care of patient following surgical mesh procedureVenezuelans increasingly stuck in Mexico, lowering illegal crossings to US2 companies fined total of HK$352,000 after dancers injured at Mirror concertLong Beach police seek additional victims of gardener arrested for alleged sexual batteryChina issues punishments over 'ugly' childrens' books