Background
As of 2023, there were around 1,100 American troops in Niger operating out of two bases, including a drone base worth $100 million.
Niger’s Decision
Niger’s ruling junta announced on Saturday that it has revoked its military cooperation agreement with the United States with immediate effect. This agreement allowed American military personnel and civilian staff on the country’s soil.
Reasons for Revocation
The decision to revoke the agreement came after a recent visit by a delegation of American officials, which the junta spokesperson criticized for not following diplomatic protocol. The delegation’s condescending attitude and threat of retaliation towards the Nigerien government and people were also condemned.
Discussion Points
- The visit by the US delegation
- Military cooperation between Niger and the US
- Niger’s choice of partners in the fight against militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State
Current Situation
Following the junta’s seizure of power last year, Niger has turned to Russia for support after expelling French and other European forces from the country. Similar steps have been taken by neighboring countries Mali and Burkina Faso in recent years.
US Troops in Niger
As of 2023, there were approximately 1,100 American troops in Niger, operating out of two bases, including the $100 million drone base known as Air Base 201 near Agadez. The base has been used since 2018 to target Islamic State militants and an al Qaeda-linked group.
In his statement, the junta spokesperson highlighted that the presence of American troops in Niger was deemed illegal and violated constitutional and democratic rules. Despite this, no immediate request for the US troops to leave was made.
Niger expressed concerns over the lack of information regarding the number of US civilians and troops on its soil, as well as the equipment deployed. The government stated that the American military was not obligated to respond to requests for assistance against militants.
As a result, the government of Niger has revoked the agreement concerning the status of United States military personnel and civilian employees on its territory.