African state scraps EU security missions

Niger's move came soon after a pledge to boost defense ties with Russia

Niger’s military government has withdrawn from two major security pacts with the European Union, saying it would end any “privileges and immunities” offered to EU forces under the deals.

Naimey’s foreign ministry announced the decision on Monday, confirming that Niger would no longer participate in the EU Civilian Capacity-Building Mission (EUCAP) or the bloc’s related Military Partnership Mission (EUMPM).