In a recent interview with the BBC, Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, expressed concerns about the activities of the Russian mercenary group Wagner, alleging their exploitation of the ongoing instability in Niger.
The West African nation is currently under military rule following the overthrow of elected President Mohamed Bazoum just two weeks ago.
There are indications that the coup leaders may have sought assistance from Wagner, a group known to operate in the neighboring country of Mali.
Blinken clarified that he doesn’t believe Russia or Wagner directly instigated the coup in Niger. However, the United States is apprehensive that the group might potentially “declare itself” in parts of the African Sahel region.
He made these remarks during the “Focus on Africa” program on BBC.
He emphasized that wherever Wagner Group has gone, it has brought death, destruction, and exploitation, leading to an exacerbation of insecurity rather than its reduction.
Blinken further pointed out that there has been a pattern similar to what occurred in other countries where the group has operated, leaving behind only turmoil and negative consequences. The group’s presence has contributed to an alarming increase in the lack of security.
Wagner Group is believed to have thousands of fighters across countries including the Central African Republic and Mali.
The group pursues profitable business interests while also bolstering Russia’s diplomatic and economic ties with these nations. The fighters of this group have faced accusations of committing widespread human rights violations in several African countries.
