US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has highlighted the Wagner mercenary group’s involvement in Niger amid the country’s recent political instability. Following the recent ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum and the junta’s assumption of power, concerns have arisen regarding Wagner’s presence, potentially influenced by developments in neighboring Mali.
Blinken clarified that while he doesn’t believe Russia or Wagner initiated Niger’s coup, they attempted to exploit the situation. This mercenary group, often associated with negative consequences, has left a trail of turmoil, destruction, and exploitation in various regions it has engaged with.
The situation has prompted worries about insecurity and a potential repeat of harmful outcomes witnessed in other countries where Wagner operated. Both the US and France maintain military bases in Niger to counter jihadist groups in the broader region.
With thousands of fighters in countries like the Central African Republic and Mali, Wagner’s presence raises concerns about human rights abuses. Despite this, there’s speculation that Niger’s army sought Wagner’s assistance amid potential military intervention.
While it remains uncertain if Wagner’s fighters are present in Niger, reports from the Wagner-affiliated Telegram channel Grey Zone suggest around 1,500 fighters were dispatched to Africa.
Amid this backdrop, the leader of Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, conveyed readiness to support those seeking sovereignty and their people’s rights. The unfolding situation in Niger has triggered anti-France and pro-Russian sentiment, echoing developments in Mali and Burkina Faso.
Notably, Burkina Faso and Mali, suspended from the West African regional bloc Ecowas, have offered support to Niger’s junta, asserting their opposition to external military intervention. However, the junta in Niger has declined a delegation from Ecowas, the African Union, and UN, citing public anger and revolt over imposed sanctions. Ecowas continues to engage to address the situation and decide on next steps.
