In a significant move, Niger has terminated key agreements with the European Union (EU) and instead forged closer ties with Russia.

Niger cancels security agreement with the EU

Niger continues to distance itself from Europe and move closer to Russia: Both the civilian and military EU missions are to be terminated, the junta announced. In addition, they have reached an agreement with Moscow. Four months after their coup, the rulers in West African Niger have canceled key agreements with the European Union. As recently revealed, the military government declared an end to cooperation within the framework of a civilian and a military mission on Monday. On the same day, Niger’s junta leader Abdourahamane Tiani received a high-ranking military delegation from Russia. According to the Nigerien broadcasting corporation, both sides agreed to enhance military cooperation.

EU to continue humanitarian aid

The EU expressed its regret over the decision. The High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, stated in Brussels that the necessary operational consequences would be taken for the withdrawal of personnel. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the European Commission stated that EU’s humanitarian aid to Niger would continue.

The two missions in question are the civilian advisory mission EUCAP and the military training mission EUMPM. These missions are part of a security partnership aimed at curbing migration towards Europe and supporting the fight against terrorism in the Sahel region.

EU experts fear Russia’s influence

Since the coup in late July, Niger has increasingly distanced itself from the former colonial power France and the EU. On the other hand, Russia has been trying to expand its relations with Africa since the start of its aggression against Ukraine in February last year. On Sunday, a Russian delegation met with the military government in Mali, focusing on development projects in the energy sector, including in the field of nuclear energy.

Experts in Europe are concerned that Russia could use its influence in the Sahel region to allow more migrants into Europe, putting pressure on the continent. Ten days ago, Niger legalized migration through its territory, which had been banned since 2015. This removed an important element of an anti-migration agreement with the European Union.