US troops have successfully withdrawn from their base in Niger’s capital, Niamey, and will fully depart from Agadez in the north by the September 15 deadline set by the country’s military rulers.
Niger’s military leaders terminated a military cooperation deal with Washington in March after seizing power in a July 2023 coup.
The United States maintained around 650 soldiers in Niger as part of anti-jihadist missions across several Sahel nations in West Africa, including a significant drone base near Agadez.
The joint statement from Niger’s defense ministry and the US Defense Department confirmed the completion of the withdrawal from Niamey base 101. A final flight carrying US troops was scheduled to leave Niamey late Sunday.
The US presence had previously included approximately 950 troops, and 766 soldiers have already left Niger since the military ordered their departure. The focus now shifts to quitting airbase 201 in Agadez, with the withdrawal expected to be finalized by September 15.
Niger has also ordered the withdrawal of troops from France, its former colonial power and traditional security ally. Additionally, the country has strengthened ties with Russia, which has provided instructors and equipment.
Germany’s defense ministry recently announced the end of operations at its airbase in Niger by August 31, following the breakdown of talks with military leaders.
Similar shifts have occurred in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, both ruled by military leaders and grappling with violence from jihadist groups.
