Niger’s Prime Minister Reveals Termination of US Military Cooperation Due to Threats and Interference with Relations with Iran and Russia
In a recent interview with The Washington Post, Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, disclosed that the decision to end military cooperation with the United States stemmed from American threats and opposition to Niger’s partnerships with Iran and Russia. Zeine criticized the US for failing to combat terrorism effectively in Niger and the Sahel region, despite a decade of presence.
The strained relations escalated when US officials attempted to dictate Niger’s foreign relationships, warning against close ties with Iran and Russia. Zeine denounced this interference and highlighted the disrespectful tone used by US representatives. Consequently, the US administration issued an ultimatum to Niger, demanding security allegiance or alignment with Washington’s adversaries.
Following the breakdown in relations, the US announced the withdrawal of troops from Niger in the coming months, marking a setback for President Joe Biden’s administration. Meanwhile, Niger has welcomed Russian advisors and air defense systems, signaling a shift towards closer ties with Moscow. Additionally, recent high-level visits to Iran underscore Niger’s efforts to diversify its international partnerships and strengthen bilateral cooperation.