Russian Troops Arrive In Niger For Training, As The U.S Troops Are Told To Pack Their Bags and go.
Channel: Africa Reloaded
Date: 17/04/2024

#africanews #russia #ibrahimtraoré 

In 2012, the status of forces” agreement was signed between Niger and the United States, allowing the US to station one thousand military personnel in Niger and operate a military base. It also made Niger a key ally of the United States. The U.S. probably thought this agreement would last for a very long time but the coup occurred in July 2023, which changed everything. Initially, it seemed like only France was affected as its military forces were sent packing, and diplomatic relations between Niger and France deteriorated completely. However, the relationship between the US and Niger is now in the spotlight as the military junta of Niger officially ended the status of forces agreement. This means that the US military forces are no longer welcome and are expected to leave. 

The only thing is that unlike when the French military was told to withdraw from Niger, the military government of Niger did not state in certain terms that the US military should leave the country. It only said that it had ended the defence agreement which allowed the US military forces to be stationed in the country. This loophole has given the US hope that it could still find a way to remain in the country. Some days after, the military government of Niger made the announcement, Celeste Wallander, assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs, told the House Armed Services Committee that so far Niger’s ruling military council, known as the CNSP, has not formally asked the U.S. military to leave. This is why officials from the US military are currently exploring several options that will allow the US military to remain in the country, meaning that they are having conversations with the military government of Niger.