French security services have reported that Russia is negotiating a $170 million deal to purchase 1 000 metric tons of uranium from Niger. The agreement involves Niger’s ruling military junta and the Russian state nuclear company Rosatom.

The uranium originates from the Arlit mine in northern Niger, formerly operated by French nuclear group Orano. The mine was seized following Niger’s July 2023 military coup, which also led to the withdrawal of French forces. Around 1 400 metric tons of yellowcake uranium remain stockpiled at the site.

According to Le Monde, Niger and Russia are planning to transport the uranium through Burkina Faso to the port of Lomé in Togo for shipment to Russia. Significant sections of the route pass through areas controlled by insurgent groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, prompting concern among French and Western intelligence agencies about potential theft. However, nuclear experts have told The Common Sense that such a scenario is unlikely.

The reported deal underscores Russia’s growing presence in West Africa following a series of coups that have weakened French influence across the Sahel.