Niger has decided to terminate its military cooperation deal with the United States, requiring 1,000 American armed forces personnel to leave the country. This move has disrupted the United States’ strategy in the region. The decision was announced by Niger’s military junta after recent meetings with U.S. officials, including Gen. Michael E. Langley. This aligns with the trend in the Sahel region where countries are breaking ties with Western nations and turning to Russia instead.
The decision follows concerns about Niger’s military government possibly allowing Iran access to its uranium reserves. Niger’s military spokesman, Col. Amadou Abdramane, stated that the American presence in the country is illegal and violates constitutional and democratic rules. The U.S. State Department is in communication with the ruling military junta, known as the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP).
Niger’s rejection of military ties with the U.S. comes after France withdrew its troops from the country. American officials had expressed their concerns during meetings with Niger’s military leaders. The U.S. had wanted to maintain its partnership with the country, but the military coup last July led to the suspension of security operations and development aid.
There have been no immediate changes to the status of American military personnel stationed in Niger. The cancellation of the security agreement is seen as a negotiating tactic to extract more benefits from cooperation with the U.S. The U.S. has been working to prevent a complete rupture in relations with Niger’s junta but is now facing challenges with the diminishing influence in the region.
The Biden administration has recognized the military takeover in Niger as a coup and cut off aid until democracy is restored. The Pentagon is considering establishing new drone bases in coastal West African countries as backups. The situation represents a significant change in the country’s dynamic with its Western allies and underscores the need for a reformed military approach in the Sahel region.
