Why a Coup in Niger Has the World’s Attention
The Daily
Russian Influence in Africa: Wagner Group and Mercenary Services
The Russians have been expanding their influence in Africa in a different way than the Chinese. While China focuses on infrastructure and resources, the Russians use the Wagner Group, a mercenary group tied to Russian military intelligence. This group offers services in exchange for access to valuable minerals. There have been suspicions of Russian involvement in a recent coup in Niger, but no evidence has been found. Russia has positioned itself as a torchbearer of anti-establishment sentiment in troubled African countries. If Russia gains influence in Niger, it could harm US interests. US policy towards Niger has been criticized for prioritizing defense and security over long-term investments in governance and anti-corruption efforts.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
