US and Niger Set Deadline for Military Withdrawal by September 15

The US Defense Department and the Nigerien Ministry of National Defense have agreed that the US military forces will be withdrawn from Niger by September 15.

This new agreement allows the US military four months to bring back less than 1,000 troops and their equipment, such as MQ-9 Reaper drones and other assets, from the African nation.

Niger’s military government announced in March that it had terminated an agreement with the US which permitted military personnel and civilian staff from the Department of Defense to operate in the country.

Last week, a US delegation held discussions with Niger’s ruling military junta in an effort to come to a resolution that would facilitate the safe withdrawal of US forces and grant flight clearances for military flights. Negotiations had been delicate due to the issue of flight clearances. Up until now, departing US troops have been using commercial flights, with the most recent instance occurring just last week as confirmed by US officials. The troops remaining in Niger are currently engaged in the process of reducing the presence of US personnel and equipment in the country.

Demonstrators in Niamey, Niger, rally for the repeal of the agreement that allows US Defense Department personnel to serve in the country on April 13, 2024.

Demonstrators in Niamey, Niger, rally for the repeal of the agreement that allows US Defense Department personnel to serve in the country on April 13, 2024.

The US delegation was headed by Chris Meier, who is the assistant secretary of defense for special operations and low-intensity conflict. The Nigerien delegation was led by Col.-Maj. Mamane Sani Kiaou, who is the chief of staff of the Nigerian army.

Both delegations have confirmed the protection and security guarantees for American forces during their withdrawal. They have also put in place procedures to make it easier for U.S. personnel to enter and exit, including obtaining clearances for military flights, according to a joint statement.

The rift between the US and the ruling military junta grew deeper after the coup in July, leading to the decision to withdraw. The Biden administration has been calling for a return to free and fair elections, but the military junta has chosen to partner more with Russia instead. As a result, Russian forces are now operating at the same base from which US forces are pulling out.

The US and Niger have agreed to collaborate on shared interests.

Both countries have expressed their dedication to maintaining a diplomatic dialogue to shape the direction of their relationship.

Editor's P/S:

The withdrawal of US military forces from Niger is a significant development that underscores the shifting geopolitical landscape in Africa. The agreement reached between the US Defense Department and the Nigerien Ministry of National Defense marks a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries, which had previously forged close ties under the previous administration.

The withdrawal comes amidst a broader reassessment of US military presence in Africa, where the focus is shifting from counterterrorism operations to addressing more complex challenges, such as climate change and economic development. The decision to leave Niger reflects the Biden administration's belief that a diplomatic approach and collaboration with African partners are essential for achieving long-term stability and prosperity on the continent.