The military relationship between the United States and Niger, its key West African ally, recently deteriorated amid negotiations regarding the continued presence of American troops in Niger.
According to the Prime Minister of Niger, this breakdown occurred following threats made by a visiting US official during last-minute discussions.
Consequently, US troops were requested to depart from the country, with Russian troops subsequently arriving to take their place. In an interview with the Washington Post, the Prime Minister attributed the strain in the relationship to the United States, accusing American officials of attempting to dictate Niger’s partnerships and failing to provide sufficient justification for their military presence.
This rift provided an opportunity for Russia to establish itself as Niger’s primary partner, a development that the US would have preferred to prevent. However, the situation escalated further following a military coup on July 26th, which ousted former President Mohamed Bazoum.
In response, the United States imposed severe sanctions on Niger in an effort to restore democratic governance in the region. This included halting counterterrorism operations and suspending security assistance, despite retaining over 1000 troops in the country.
The new Junta government, led by Abdourahamane Tchiani, expressed dissatisfaction with the level of US support, feeling marginalized as a partner. The Prime Minister highlighted that Niger no longer felt like a valued ally to the US, especially in light of the extensive support provided by the US to Ukraine and Israel.
“The Americans stayed on our soil, doing nothing while the terrorists killed people and burned towns,” The prime minister stated.“It is not a sign of friendship to come on our soil but let the terrorists attack us. We have seen what the United States will do to defend its allies because we have seen Ukraine and Israel,” he added.