According to the Russian diplomatic body, ‘the attacks were repelled with the support of the African Corps of the Russian Ministry of Defense, and the situation is under control of the legitimate authorities led by President Abdourahamane Tchiani.’

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Moscow ‘will continue supporting Nigerien friends in the fight against extremism, and wishes Niger and the entire Confederation of Sahel States’ further strengthening of its sovereignty and peaceful development.

The Sahel States Confederation is an alliance between Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso formed in 2024 with the goal of coordinating the fight against terrorism in the region. The three members of the Confederation are former French colonies that gained independence in 1960.

After the formal abolition of its colonial empire, Paris has maintained considerable influence in its former colonies through a system of bilateral treaties, as well as ties with postcolonial governments and a military presence, although its positions in the region are weakening.

Last February, Russian intelligence warned that Ukraine is sending drones and military instructors to terrorist groups operating in the Sahel countries, especially Mali, supporting France’s efforts to regain its influence in those territories.

The African Body is a military contingent of contractors under the Russian Ministry of Defense that is active in Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and several other African countries.

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