The United States has announced plans to withdraw troops from Niger, a move that experts believe will have significant implications for security operations in the Sahel region. The decision comes as U.S. officials seek to negotiate a new military agreement with the West African nation.
The withdrawal plans were confirmed following discussions between the Prime Minister of Niger, Ali Lamine Zeine, and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell. While no specific timeline has been provided for the withdrawal, talks are set to commence in the coming days to determine the next steps.
Niger has played a crucial role in U.S. military operations in the Sahel, a region known for the presence of jihadi violence and extremist groups. The country hosts a major U.S. air base in Agadez, which has been instrumental in conducting surveillance flights and other operations since 2013.
However, relations between Niger and Western countries have strained following a military coup that ousted the democratically elected president. The junta's decision to seek security assistance from Russia has further complicated the situation, leading to the impending withdrawal of U.S. troops.
Efforts to revise the military agreement between the U.S. and Niger have been unsuccessful, with the junta expressing a desire to end the presence of foreign forces in the country. This decision has raised concerns about the future of security cooperation and the impact on development and humanitarian aid funds destined for Niger.
Despite the withdrawal of U.S. troops, there remains a possibility for future engagement between the two nations. Local activists and experts suggest that negotiations could pave the way for the return of American forces, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive working relationship.
As the U.S. navigates this shift in its security strategy, there is a call for a new approach that prioritizes accountability and human rights in the Sahel region. While the loss of access to air bases in Niger poses challenges for U.S. and allied operations, efforts to address shared interests between the two countries are expected to continue.
