According to multiple reports, the Russian troops made their way to Airbase 101, located next to Diori Hamani International Airport in Niger’s capital Niamey; however, there has been no form of mingling with the US military personnel since they arrived at the location.
The presence of Russian military personnel at the base is adding tension to the already strained relationship between the US and Moscow, as their military forces are now in close proximity to each other. This situation is even more sensitive as Washington declared its support for Ukraine after Russia invaded its neighbouring country back in 2022.
Speaking to Reuters about the situation, one of the US officials present said, “[The situation] is not great but, in the short-term, manageable.
Defense Secretary Austin revealed that he saw no significant issue as the Russians cannot access US forces at Airbase 101 since Moscow’s troops were deployed to a separate hanger.
“Airbase 101, where our forces [are], is a Nigerien air force base co-located with an international airport in the capital city. The Russians are in a separate compound and don’t have access to US forces or access to our equipment,” Austin told a news conference in Honolulu.
“I’m always focused on the safety and protection of our troops, [and it is] something we’ll continue to watch,” he said.
“But right now, I don’t see a significant issue here regarding our force protection,” he added.