Niger’s ruling military junta has expelled United States military personnel and civilian staff from the country, citing breaches of diplomatic protocol and sovereignty.
The decision, announced by junta spokesperson Colonel Amadou Abdramane on national television, points to a growing tension between the West African nation and the United States.
“We are in touch with the CNSP (Niger’s ruling military council) and will provide further updates as warranted,” the official added.
Since seizing power in July last year, the Niger junta, like the military rulers in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, have kicked out French and other European forces, and turned to Russia for support.
Junta Accuses US of Diplomatic Breaches
The move follows a recent visit by a US delegation led by Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee and General Michael Langley, commander of the US Africa Command.
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Colonel Abdramane accused the US delegation of failing to adhere to diplomatic protocol, citing lack of prior notification about the visit’s composition, timing, and agenda.
“Niger regrets the intention of the American delegation to deny the sovereign Nigerien people the right to choose their partners and types of partnerships capable of truly helping them fight against terrorism,” Abdramane said.
Abdramane asserted that the discussions during the US delegation’s visit centered on Niger’s military transition, cooperation between the two countries, and Niger’s choice of partners in combating extremist groups affiliated with al Qaeda and Islamic State.
The junta spokesperson criticized what he described as the US delegation’s attempt to dictate Niger’s partnerships and denounced perceived condescension and threats of reprisals.
The expulsion of US forces from Niger follows similar actions by neighboring countries, including Mali and Burkina Faso, which have expelled European forces and sought support from Russia.
The decision impacts approximately 1,100 US troops stationed in Niger, where they operate from two bases, including a significant drone base near Agadez.
Colonel Abdramane contended that the presence of US troops in Niger violated constitutional and democratic principles, alleging that the agreement facilitating their deployment was unilaterally imposed in 2012 without Niger’s full consent.
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He highlighted a lack of transparency regarding the number of US personnel and equipment in the country, as well as limitations on US military assistance in counterterrorism efforts.
Citing these concerns, Abdramane announced the immediate revocation of the agreement governing the status of US military personnel and civilian employees in Niger.
The junta spokesperson emphasized the illegality of the US troop presence and asserted Niger’s right to revoke the agreement unilaterally.
