Troops to be Withdrawn from Niger by U.S. Military
TL/DR –
The Biden administration has informed Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Lamine Zeine, that more than 1,000 US military personnel will leave Niger in coming months due to disagreements over the country’s pivot towards Russia for security and Iran for uranium deals. This decision follows Niger’s revocation of its military cooperation deal with the US, and increasing trends among Sahel region countries to partner with Russia instead of Western countries. Despite failed attempts at a revamped military cooperation deal and Niger’s acceptance of Russian military equipment and instructors, US officials have begun discussing an “orderly and responsible withdrawal” of forces from Niger – a process expected to take months.
Biden Administration Announces U.S. Troop Withdrawal from Niger
In a shift of U.S. counterterrorism policy in Africa’s Sahel region, officials announced Friday that over 1,000 American military personnel will exit Niger in the coming months. The U.S. voiced disagreement with Niger’s alliance with Russia for security and Iran for potential uranium deals.
In a previously reported move, Niger revoked its military cooperation deal with the U.S. after contentious meetings. This mirrors other Sahel region countries severing ties with Western nations and partnering with Russia.
Failed Attempts to Salvage Military Cooperation
U.S. officials attempted to renegotiate a military cooperation deal with Niger’s government but were unsuccessful amid growing anti-U.S. sentiment. Last Saturday, protests erupted demanding the withdrawal of U.S. troops, shortly after Russia delivered military aid to Niger.
Niger’s stance follows France’s troop withdrawal, the former colonial power leading counterterrorism efforts in West Africa. American officials confirmed that they will soon discuss an “orderly and responsible withdrawal” process with Niger.
Uncertain Future for U.S. Air Base 201
Currently, many U.S. troops are stationed at U.S. Air Base 201. The future of this base is unclear given Niger’s strengthening relations with Russia and the cessation of active operations following last July’s military coup.
Russian Influence Grows in Niger
The arrival of Russian military personnel and an air-defense system in Niger further dampens the prospect of cooperation with the U.S. Demonstrators in Niamey, Niger’s capital, waved Russian flags, indicating growing support for Russian assistance in their fight against insurgents.
U.S. Efforts to Maintain Relations
Despite setbacks, U.S. officials, including the new Ambassador to Niger, Kathleen FitzGibbon, continue dialogues with Niger’s junta. The Pentagon is also considering establishing new drone bases with several coastal West African countries to counter the loss of Niger’s strategic position.
Former U.S. envoy to the Sahel, J. Peter Pham, noted the withdrawal’s impact on both Niger’s people and U.S. strategic interests, stating it would be “very difficult to replace.”
—
Read More US Political News