Is Russia proving better at protecting friends than fighting enemies in West Africa?
Russian forces were brought in to help defeat jihadists but they also defend the military leadership in Niger.
The attempted coup in Niger has highlighted the increasing role of Russia, through its Africa Corps, in protecting governments in the Sahel region. Unlike its predecessor, the Wagner Group, Africa Corps is directly under the control of the Russian defense ministry and provides combat support and military training. Russia's ambassador to Niger, Viktor Voropaev, acknowledged the weekend intervention, stating that Russian forces helped to repress a mutiny.
Analysts believe this victory will keep Russia at the center of the counter-insurgency campaign and protect the military rule in the region. The attempted coup also underscores the dependence of Niger and other Sahel countries on Russia for security. While Africa Corps has helped contain the militant groups, it has not resolved the underlying grievances within the military.
Despite the challenges, Russia is unlikely to withdraw its forces from the Sahel soon, as they provide valuable resources and diplomatic benefits.
Written by urgent.news from BBC World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
