Niger's Prime Minister, Ali Lamine Zeine Mahaman, has made serious accusations against France and Ukraine, claiming they are supporting armed groups preparing to attack the country's military positions and oil installations. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, Zeine alleged that these groups, operating near Niger's northeastern borders, are armed, guided, and on the verge of launching an attack. He did not provide evidence to support these claims.
The Prime Minister specifically mentioned that France, a former colonial power, is leading an effort to destabilize the Sahel region, with what he described as Ukraine's active complicity. Zeine's accusations come amid strained relations between Niamey and Paris, which have deteriorated significantly since Niger's military took power in July 2023. The relationship between the two countries has been tense, with France previously dismissing similar accusations as "pure fantasy."
Zeine defended Niger's sovereignty policy and its membership in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which also includes Mali and Burkina Faso. He emphasized that Niger does not seek confrontation with any country but is determined to defend its territory and control its natural resources. The Prime Minister's comments reflect the country's commitment to protecting its interests and resources.
Niger has become a crude oil exporter in 2024, thanks to the construction of an oil pipeline linking the Agadem fields to the Atlantic coast. The country is counting on its oil and mining revenues to finance its security and development policies. Zeine's statements at the UN underscore the importance of these resources for Niger's future.
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed Niger's commitment to the Confederation of Sahel States, describing its construction as an irreversible process of reconquest of sovereignty for the three member countries. This regional alliance aims to promote cooperation and coordination among its members, particularly in the areas of security and economic development.
Zeine's accusations against France and Ukraine have not been verified, and the two countries have not publicly responded to these claims. The situation remains tense, with Niger seeking to assert its independence and protect its resources. The international community is closely watching developments in the region, given the potential implications for regional stability.
The Nigerien government's stance reflects its determination to prioritize national interests and security. As the country navigates its relationships with international partners, it remains to be seen how these accusations will impact diplomatic relations and regional dynamics.
Key points
- Niger's Prime Minister accuses France and Ukraine of supporting armed groups threatening the country's oil installations.
- The accusations come amid strained relations between Niamey and Paris, which have deteriorated since Niger's military took power in July 2023.
- Niger has become a crude oil exporter in 2024, relying on oil and mining revenues to finance its security and development policies.
