France, Jan. 30 -- Armed men on motorcycles attacked Diori Hamani International Airport, outside Niger's capital Niamey, shortly before midnight on Wednesday.

Niger's state broadcaster reported loud explosions and heavy gunfire at the airport, which also hosts a military base.

The defence ministry said four members of the security forces were injured, 20 attackers were killed and 11 people were arrested during what security sources described as a terrorist attack.

State television said one of the attackers killed was a French national, without providing evidence. Threats of retaliation

After visiting the air base, Tiani thanked Russia for helping repel the attack.

"We commend all the defence and security forces, as well as Russian pa...