Photo courtesy of Anadolu
Russia condemned Saturday the attack on Niger’s main airport and expressed support for the country’s authorities following an attempted assault by anti-government fighters.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Moscow was concerned over Thursday’s attack on Niamey International Airport.
Niger’s Defense Ministry earlier reported that at least 22 attackers were killed during the exchange of fire.
Authorities also arrested about 21 suspects after the assault.
The ministry said 11 defense and security personnel and two civilians were killed.
Four others were reported injured.
Zakharova cited information from Niger’s defense ministry alleging that the attackers were armed mercenaries acting on behalf of France.
Russia said it stood in solidarity with Niger’s people and leadership, including President Abdourahamane Tchiani. Niger is part of the Confederation of Sahel States, a regional alliance formed with Mali and Burkina Faso after military takeovers in the three countries.