Russian soldiers assisted Nigerien forces in repelling a deadly attack claimed by the armed group ISIL (ISIS) on Niger’s main international airport in Niamey, according to a statement from Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In a release issued on Monday, Moscow said the assault was thwarted through the joint efforts of Russia’s Ministry of Defence African Corps and the Nigerien armed forces.
“The attack was repelled through the coordinated actions of Russian and Nigerien forces,” the ministry said, strongly condemning what it described as a new extremist attack in the Sahel region.
Attack Leaves Dozens of Assailants Dead or Captured
Niger’s military authorities earlier confirmed that “Russian partners” played a role in stopping the rare and bold assault on the capital. The attack reportedly resulted in the deaths of 20 attackers, including a French national, while four Nigerien soldiers were wounded.
State broadcaster Télé Sahel reported that at least 11 fighters were captured alive following the operation.
ISIL later claimed responsibility for what it described as a “surprise and coordinated attack” on the airbase located within the Diori Hamani International Airport, which also houses a military facility. The attack occurred during the night of January 28.
Video Shows Assault on Airport Facilities
A video released by Amaq, an ISIL-affiliated media outlet, showed dozens of armed men firing assault rifles near an aircraft hangar. The footage also appeared to show one aircraft set on fire before the attackers fled the area on motorbikes.
Security analysts say the attack marked a significant escalation, given the strategic importance of the airport and its location in the heart of the capital.
Russia Warns of External Involvement
Russia’s Foreign Ministry drew parallels between the Niamey assault and a September 2024 attack on Mali’s international airport, suggesting that external actors may be providing logistical and technical assistance to armed groups in the region.
“According to available information, external forces offering instructor and technical support are involved,” the ministry said, as quoted by Russia’s state-run TASS news agency.
Niger’s Military Leader Thanks Russian Forces
Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, later visited the Russian military base in Niamey to personally thank Russian troops for what Moscow described as their “high level of professionalism” in defending the airport.
The visit underscored the deepening security cooperation between Niger and Russia following the country’s break with several Western allies.
Analysts Raise Concerns Over Sophistication of Attack
Ulf Laessing, head of the Sahel programme at Germany’s Konrad Adenauer Foundation, told the Associated Press that the complexity and boldness of the attack suggest the assailants may have received inside assistance.
He noted that the possible use of drones and the targeting of a highly sensitive site point to growing confidence among armed groups in the region, driven by previous successful operations.
Regional Tensions and Accusations
In the immediate aftermath of the attack, Niger’s military authorities accused Benin, France, and Côte d’Ivoire of sponsoring the assault. However, no evidence was presented to support the allegations, and no formal follow-up has been announced.
The incident highlights the worsening security situation in the Sahel, where governments increasingly rely on non-Western partners as armed groups expand their reach and capabilities.
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