Russia draws closer to Niger with new ambassador

Russia’s new ambassador to Niger presented his credentials Thursday to the west African nation’s military leader, as the two countries forge closer ties.

Niger and its junta-led neighbors Burkina Faso and Mali have cultivated close relations with Russia since their leaders took power in a series of coups from 2020 to 2023, and have strained ties with the West.

Previously, Russia’s ambassador to Niger was stationed in Mali.

But last August, President Vladimir Putin named Viktor Voropayev to be Russia’s ambassador in the Nigerien capital, Niamey.

A diplomatic source said Voropayev had officially started the job Thursday, presenting his credentials to General Abdourahamane Tiani, leader of the junta that took power after a 2023 coup.

Russia has aided Niger in a long-running conflict with militant fighters, after the junta asked US and French troops who previously fought the insurgents to leave.

Moscow has also voiced interest in tapping Niger’s large uranium deposits.

Niger named General Abdou Sidikou Issa its ambassador to Moscow in 2024, calling it the “incarnation of a wish to strengthen relations.”