[BREAKING] Niger Crisis: Blinken Sends Strong Warning On Russia’s Wagner Taking Advantage

[BREAKING] Niger Crisis: Blinken Sends Strong Warning On Russia’s Wagner Taking Advantage

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed concerns about the potential involvement of Russia’s Wagner mercenaries in exploiting the instability caused by the coup in Niger, especially considering neighboring Mali’s ties with Moscow…CONTINUE READING

During an interview with the BBC, released on Tuesday, Blinken cast doubt on the notion that Wagner, which staged a covert uprising against President Vladimir Putin in June, played a role in the ousting of Niger’s elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, by the country’s military on July 26. The US official stated that he does not believe the situation in Niger was instigated by Russia or Wagner.

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Blinken remarked, “However, if they seek to capitalize on the situation – drawing parallels with their actions in other nations that have resulted in negative consequences – that would be concerning. Everywhere the Wagner Group has operated, it has left behind a trail of death, destruction, and exploitation.”

Wagner has formed partnerships with various African nations, including Mali and the Central African Republic, which has led to allegations of human rights abuses by both rights organizations and Western governments.

Mali, which is under military control, has been a rare example of a country that has leaned toward Russia diplomatically during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a conflict in which Wagner has been deeply involved. Mali and Burkina Faso, both of which have been accused of having links with Wagner, have shown support for the coup leaders in Niger by sending emissaries.

Niger has played a crucial role as a base for anti-jihadist operations led by the US and France in the Sahel region, especially following the withdrawal of international forces from Mali.

Blinken’s acting deputy, Victoria Nuland, visited Niger on Monday and stated that the military leadership was aware of the potential “risks” associated with collaborating with Wagner.