Wagner's Role in Niger Coup Raises U.S. Concerns

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner Group, mocked U.S. diplomat Victoria Nuland for her unsuccessful attempts to ease tensions in Niger following a military coup. Nuland had urged the military junta not to make deals with the Wagner Group, but Prigozhin responded by expressing joy and pride in his mercenaries. The prospects for a negotiated outcome in Niger appear slim, as the junta has a different vision for the country's future. Prigozhin is actively trying to get involved in the crisis, and his rhetoric suggests he is working to align himself with the coup-plotters. The United States and European countries have condemned the coup, while neighboring countries have threatened to use force if the junta doesn't reverse its plans.