(Adnkronos) – The Algerian government has confirmed the dispatch of four fighter jets to Niger for a “support mission” to the military after last weekend’s attempted coup. In a note, the Algerian Ministry of Defense announced that the dispatch of “two patrols of Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets,” consisting of four aircraft, took place on the order of Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, within the framework of “strengthening strategic cooperation relations between Algeria and Niger in various sectors, especially the military one” and after “the deplorable developments” in Niamey.
Algiers denounced “an attempt to destabilize” the neighboring country and specified that the fighter jets were also sent at “Niger’s request.” “They landed on August 30 at Niamey airport,” they announced, speaking of “an operation” that “reaffirms, once again, Algeria’s constant commitment and determination to continue its work to strengthen security and stability in the region.” Algiers reiterates “at the same time its firm support for the State of Niger, its government, its population, to overcome this delicate phase.”
The Nigerien authorities spoke of “an attempted coup.” Since Saturday, Abdourahmane Tchiani, the general in power since the July 2023 coup, has been expected to appear in public. The Minister of Defense, Salifou Modi, pointed the finger at an “insurgent movement” that had begun to “arrest some fellow soldiers at Base 101 in Niamey,” the capital’s main military base, and “to fire at strategic sites in the city.”
