Niger has begun the process of withdrawing US troops from its territory as part of the termination of a defense pact that allowed Washington to operate a $100 million drone base in the Sahel state. The decision to pull out US troops came after Niger scrapped defense cooperation with the US in March due to the failure of the American contingent to assist in the fight against jihadist militants. The US Department of Defense Africa Command is ensuring a safe and efficient withdrawal of its personnel from Niger, with plans to complete the process by September.
In addition to the withdrawal of US troops, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali are forging closer ties as part of the Alliance of Sahel States. They aim to find African solutions to the challenges facing the region. Meanwhile, concerns have been raised in Washington about the withdrawal process potentially echoing the chaotic exit from Afghanistan. Congressman Matt Gaetz emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of American troops during the troop withdrawal.
As the US disengages from Niger, it signifies a change in geopolitical alliances in the region, with former colonial powers like France also reducing their military presence. This evolution underscores the shifting dynamics in the Sahel region.