Niger and U.S. Finalize Agreement on American Troop Withdrawal by September

NIAMEY,NIGER — Niger and the United States have announced a mutual agreement to withdraw American troops from the West African nation, with the process set to be completed by September 15. The joint statement marks the culmination of a significant shift in Niger-U.S. relations following a coup in Niger last year.

Niger's military government, which took power in the coup, had issued a directive last month for the nearly 1,000 U.S. military personnel stationed in the country to leave. Prior to the coup, Niger was a crucial ally for Washington in its efforts to combat insurgent groups in the Sahel region, where militant violence has led to thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions.

The agreement, reached after a five-day commission between Niger's defense ministry and the U.S. Department of Defense, ensures the protection of U.S. troops during the withdrawal process. It also sets out protocols to facilitate the smooth entry and exit of American personnel.

In their joint statement, both parties emphasized their shared commitment and sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, highlighting the progress made in strengthening Niger's armed forces.

"The Ministry of Defense of Niger and the U.S. Department of Defense recall the common sacrifices of the Nigerien and American forces in the fight against terrorism and welcome the mutual efforts made in building up the Nigerien armed forces," the statement read.

Importantly, the withdrawal does not signal an end to the broader relationship between the two countries. Both nations reaffirmed their dedication to continuing diplomatic dialogue and maintaining cooperation in developmental areas.

"The withdrawal of American forces from Niger in no way affects the pursuit of relations between the United States and Niger in the area of development. Also, Niger and the United States are committed to an ongoing diplomatic dialogue to define the future of their bilateral relations," the statement continued.

Niger's call for the withdrawal of U.S. troops followed a meeting in Niamey in mid-March, where senior U.S. officials expressed concerns about the potential arrival of Russian forces and reports that Iran was seeking raw materials in Niger, including uranium. Since then, Russian military personnel have taken up positions at an air base in Niger that currently hosts U.S. troops.

The evolving situation in Niger is a critical development in the geopolitical landscape of the Sahel, as the region grapples with instability and foreign influences. The international community will be closely monitoring the withdrawal and the subsequent impact on Niger's security and diplomatic relations.