U.S.-Trained Niger Junta Kicks Out U.S. Troops, Drone Base

Niger’s ruling junta spokesperson announced the end of the country’s counterterrorism partnership with the United States, citing aspirations and interests of the people and claiming the agreement violated the constitution. This decision follows a spike in terrorist violence and tensions during a recent high-level U.S. delegation visit. The U.S. was urged not to interfere with Niger’s choice of partners. The U.S. officials faced criticism for their diplomatic efforts since Niger’s July 2023 coup. The U.S. has a significant military presence in Niger, mainly concentrated in Air Base 201 near Agadez. Despite aid suspension after the coup, the U.S. continued drone operations in the region. The termination of the security agreement has raised concerns about potential partnerships between Niger and other countries like Russia and Iran. The U.S. military involvement in Niger has not deterred terrorist violence in the region, with a significant increase in casualties reported. Critics argue that the U.S.’s approach to security cooperation in Niger has not met the expectations of the local population.

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• United States
• Agadez
• Russia
• Iran