Agreement for the Withdrawal
An official confirmed to CBS News that the United States has agreed to pull out its troops from Niger. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Nigerian Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine have committed to planning an orderly and responsible withdrawal of the approximately 1,000 U.S. military personnel stationed in the West African nation.
Reasons for Withdrawal
Niger has been a key player in U.S. military operations in Africa’s Sahel region, tackling the spread of jihadist violence. Local extremist groups have sworn allegiance to al-Qaida and ISIS, prompting concerns in Washington.
Public Outcry and International Relations
Residents of Niger have voiced their demands for the immediate departure of American soldiers, with thousands protesting in the capital, Niamey. Following a military coup in Niger and strained relations with Western nations, the junta has requested French forces to leave and has sought security assistance from Russia.
Implications of the Withdrawal
The U.S. had invested heavily in training Niger’s military and operated a significant airbase in Agadez. However, with the changing geopolitical landscape, the decision to withdraw troops marks a shift in international alliances and security strategies in the region.