US Troops in Niger: Withdrawal of US Troops Announced | Global News

The United States has announced plans to withdraw troops from Niger, a move that experts say will have significant implications for security operations in the Sahel region. The decision comes after the prime minister of Niger, Ali Lamine Zeine, and U.S. deputy secretary of state Kurt Campbell agreed to begin planning the withdrawal of American troops.

Niger plays a crucial role in U.S. military operations in the Sahel, with a major air base in Agadez being used for surveillance flights and other operations. However, relations between Niger and Western countries have deteriorated since the ousting of the country’s democratically elected president by mutinous soldiers in July. The junta has turned to Russia for security assistance, leading to the arrival of Russian military trainers and equipment in Niger.

Efforts by the U.S. to revise the military agreement with Niger to allow them to stay have failed, with the junta expressing a desire to have no foreign forces in the country. This decision has raised concerns about the potential for Russian and American troops to be colocated in Niger.

The loss of access to air bases in Niger is seen as a major setback for the U.S. and its allies in the region, with implications for security operations and development aid. Despite the withdrawal of American troops, there is potential for negotiations to bring them back in the future, as the ruling junta aims to maintain a good working relationship with the U.S.

As the U.S. looks for new modes of engagement in the region, experts emphasize the importance of accountability and human rights in future partnerships. Despite the withdrawal of troops, Niger and the U.S. are expected to continue working together on areas of shared interest.