Algerian troops arrive in northern Niger
60 tankers carrying fuel crossed the border and reached Agadez with soldiers.
A convoy of about 60 Algerian tankers carrying fuel, escorted by soldiers, arrived in northern Niger this weekend. The troops crossed the border a week after Algerian lawmakers approved their deployment to the neighboring country. Nigerien armed forces welcomed the convoy.
The convoy reached the northern Nigerien city of Agadez on Saturday, according to reports from French radio station RFI. An Algerian military unit is also expected in Niamey. The Algerian parliament agreed to send troops on October 25 to assist Niger in its fight against armed groups along their shared border.
Algeria's deployment aims to protect its energy and economic interests, including the under-construction Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline. This is Algeria's first military deployment abroad since 1973. The move occurs as the United Arab Emirates and Libya expand their influence in the Sahel region.
Why it mattersAlgerian troops and fuel tankers have entered Niger to assist in fighting armed groups and protect energy interests.