Niger's Junta Shifts Defence Cooperation from EU to Russia

Niger's junta has terminated two military agreements with the European Union (EU) aimed at combating violence in the Sahel region, following the country's coup in July. In a meeting with a Russian delegation, Niger's military leaders discussed defense cooperation, signaling a shift towards Russia for security partnerships. The move comes as Niger's foreign allies, including France, have imposed sanctions and withdrawn their troops. The junta's consolidation of power and search for new alliances have been fueled by the pressure from international sanctions.