Thousands of junta supporters in Niger have marched through the streets of the capital waving Russian flags and chanting Vladimir Putin‘s name.
The junta took over Niger in a coup earlier this week, alarming African countries and Western powers.
Protesters today marched to the French Embassy, lighting a door on fire, according to eyewitnesses and footage.
Black smoke was seen rising across the city, while the army moved to break up protesters.
The West had seen Niger as the last reliable partner in efforts to battle jihadists in Africa’s Sahel region – an area where Russia and Western countries have fought for influence.
READ ALSO: Russia Will Have To Use A Nuclear Weapon If Ukraine’s Offensive Was A Success – Medvedev
Russian mercenary group Wagner has welcomed the rebellion and will be hoping it could give the group a foothold in the nation.
Wagner is already operating in neighbouring Mali, and Mr Putin is hoping to expand his influence in the region.
READ ALSO: Ukraine Will Not Join NATO In The Midst Of War With Russia – Jens Stoltenberg
So far, it’s unclear whether the junta leaders will turn to Moscow or stick with Niger’s current Western partners.
Photo Credit: Getty
