Russian military personnel have entered an air base in Niger that is hosting U.S. troops, a senior U.S. defense official told Reuters, a move that follows a decision by Niger's junta to expel U.S. forces from the country.
The military officers ruling the West African nation have told the U.S. to withdraw its nearly 1,000 military personnel from the country, which until a coup last year had been a key partner for Washington's fight against insurgents who have killed thousands of people and displaced millions more.
A senior U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Russian forces were not mingling with U.S. troops but were using a separate hanger at Airbase 101, which is next to Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, Niger's capital.
The move by Russia's military puts U.S. and Russian troops in close proximity at a time when the nations' military and diplomatic rivalry is increasingly acrimonious over the conflict in Ukraine.
It also raises questions about the fate of U.S. installations in the country following a withdrawal.
"(The situation) is not great but in the short-term manageable," the official said.
The Nigerian and Russian embassies in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
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Consider the impact on local communities and their perspective when foreign military bases are established in their country; what concerns or benefits do you think they might have?
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If your country's leadership changed its international alliances, choosing to partner with a different country's military, how would you feel about this shift?
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In a situation where two opposing international forces are stationed in close proximity in your country, how would you anticipate this affecting your daily life and sense of security?
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Imagine your government decided to host troops from a country you considered a rival or threat; what would be your immediate reaction?
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How would you feel if foreign military forces were stationed near your community, especially from nations with tense relations?