Russian Military Trainers Arrive in Niger Amid Deteriorating Relations with US

Russian military trainers have arrived in Niger to assist in training Nigerien forces, marking a shift in the country's alliances as relations with the U.S. deteriorate. Niger, previously a close ally of the U.S., has sought to diversify its partnerships and achieve greater sovereignty, leading to the arrival of Russian trainers following a call between President Vladimir Putin and the country’s military leaders. The U.S. has been training Nigerien forces but has faced challenges as the junta, in control since a coup in July, has sought to assert its independence.