Niger

Niger, a West African nation currently under military rule led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, is facing significant challenges. Recently, the Niamey international airport and an adjacent air force base were attacked, with ISIL claiming responsibility. The junta has accused France, Benin, and Ivory Coast of sponsoring the attack, without providing evidence. Simultaneously, Niger is strengthening its ties with Russia, with Tiani thanking "Russian partners" for defending the airbase. This shift comes after the military government broke defense ties with France. The US has declared a policy shift to engage with Niger and other West African juntas that have turned to Russia. The situation highlights the growing instability in the Sahel region, the increasing influence of extremist groups like ISIL, and the geopolitical competition between Western powers and Russia for influence in the region.