The future of US-Niger military cooperation hangs in the balance after Niger’s military junta announced the termination of their agreement with the United States. The move comes despite ongoing talks between the two nations.
The junta, which took power in a July 2023 coup, declared the immediate severing of the agreement on national television on Saturday. However, the US State Department expressed confusion and requested clarification. Spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasized the “mutually beneficial” nature of the partnership, highlighting joint goals of combating terrorism and fostering development in the region.
Niger, a key US ally in the fight against insurgents in the Sahel, houses a major US drone base. The US has invested heavily in the country, building the $100 million facility in the desert. This strategic alliance came into question after the coup, with the junta expelling French forces and seeking closer ties with Russia, mirroring actions by neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso.
Interestingly, the junta did not target the US presence directly. Approximately 1,000 American troops remain stationed in Niger. This decision comes despite US efforts to solidify the democratically elected government. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit a year ago aimed to support then-President Mohamed Bazoum, who is now under house arrest following the coup.
The mixed signals continued as a high-level US delegation led by General Michael Langley, the top US military commander for Africa, recently visited Niger and met junta leaders. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh characterized the discussions as “direct and frank,” highlighting US concerns about the coup itself and potential ties between Niger and Russia and Iran. However, she also acknowledged efforts to find a path forward, respecting both Niger’s sovereignty and US interests.
The coming days will be crucial in determining the fate of US-Niger military cooperation. Clarification from the junta and the outcome of further discussions will determine whether this critical partnership continues.
