Niger 12.05.24

• Russian military personnel have arrived at a base that is hosting US troops in Niger. The US has been told to withdraw its troops from the country. It has been reported that the US troops are using a separate hanger on the base to the Russians. https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/russian-troops-enter-base-housing-us-military-niger-us-official-says-2024-05-02/

• Benin is preventing Niger from using its port to export crude oil. Niger is a landlocked country and relies on other countries to be able to export its goods. Benin is one of the countries that placed sanctions on Niger following the coup. Niger closed its borders to imports from Benin, and therefore, Benin is refusing to let them use their port. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cmm3dr2e5lqo

• Multiple gold mines have been temporarily closed after animals drinking the mine's wastewater have died. 24 animals have died in 48 hours. https://www.voanews.com/a/several-northern-niger-gold-mines-ordered-shut-after-animals-die/7598886.html

• The US has announced it will withdraw most of its troops.  http://eng.chinamil.com.cn/OPINIONS_209196/Opinions_209197/16307041.html