Last week, a violent attack occurred at Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, the capital of Niger. Armed militants, riding motorcycles, targeted the main international airport, which also serves as an air base for a joint military force composed of Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Russian soldiers. The assault was claimed by an affiliate of the Islamic State operating in the Sahel region. The attack was significant as it occurred against the backdrop of escalating violence against government forces in Niger and neighboring countries, which have recently seen a surge in jihadist activity. Reports indicate that Nigerien forces, with the support of Russian troops, managed to repel the assault. According to Russia’s Foreign Ministry, around half of the militants involved were killed during the confrontation. Additionally, weapons and other property were seized from the assailants. Officials in Russia strongly condemned the attack, drawing attention to a pattern of extremist actions in the region, including a similar incident in Mali. The ministry attributed the persistent threat of terrorism in the Sahel to external forces providing training and logistical support to jihadist groups. In light of these developments, Moscow reaffirmed its commitment to bolster the combat capacity of local armed forces and deepen security cooperation with Sahel countries. This stance coincides with growing dissatisfaction in the region towards foreign military presence, particularly from France, whose troops have been accused of failing to thwart the jihadist insurgency after a protracted anti-terror mission. Niger’s military government, allied with Mali and Burkina Faso, has thus sought to establish new security partnerships, notably with Russia, amidst claims that France is attempting to destabilize their governments in line with neocolonial ambitions. By endorsing military alliances and supporting operations in the Sahel, Russia aims to extend its influence in West Africa, capitalizing on the perceived failures of Western counterterrorism strategies while enhancing regional security efforts.