The Pentagon has announced a major shift in U.S. military strategy by ordering the withdrawal of all American combat troops from Niger.
The Washington Examiner reported that the decision effectively ends a long-standing counter-terrorism initiative in the region while signaling a notable victory for Russian influence in Africa.
In a move confirmed by an unnamed U.S. official last Friday, preparations have begun to withdraw approximately 1,000 troops from Niger. This follows a directive from the local junta that seized power in Niger in mid-April, demanding the expulsion of U.S. forces.
Initially, the Biden administration appeared optimistic that the new junta might reverse its decision. However, as negotiations faltered, the reality set in that U.S. forces would need to relocate. These troops are expected to move to other strategic locations within the region to continue their operations.
Niger has been a crucial hub for both U.S. and European counter-terrorism efforts in the Sahel region. The presence of U.S. forces has been pivotal in combating various extremist groups that have destabilized the area.
The withdrawal has faced criticism from Congressional Republicans, who argue that the Biden administration lacked a clear military mission and strategy for the future. They expressed concerns over the abrupt end to a critical military engagement without a well-defined plan moving forward.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on May 3 confirmed the movement of Russian troops into Airbase 101 in Niamey, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.
The Russian contingent includes about 100 soldiers, some of whom are former members of the Wagner Group, a notorious private military company.
Despite the broad order for withdrawal, discussions with the Nigerien regime continue, aiming to keep a minimal U.S. counter-terrorism force in the country. However, as stated by a U.S. military official to CNN, these hopes are "largely wishful thinking at this point."
Chris Maier, assistant secretary of defense, highlighted the determination of the junta to reduce the American footprint significantly, possibly down to very low numbers.
Maier also noted the potential repercussions for regimes that opt for Russian support over established U.S. and European aid, which often includes governance and human rights stipulations.
The expansion of Russian military presence in Niger represents a shift in local preferences, where military dictatorships might favor aid that lacks stringent conditions on governance.
This perspective is supported by a report from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, which discusses the regional trend toward accepting assistance without human rights obligations.
There remains hope within U.S. defense circles that the Russians might underperform, potentially leading to a scenario where Niger might request U.S. forces to return. However, this is speculative and contingent upon several geopolitical factors.
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) criticized the decision, stating, "Our troops are currently sitting on a powder keg caused by political indecision at the top of the Department of State and Department of Defense." This sentiment reflects widespread concerns over the lack of decisive leadership in responding to the junta's demands.
Further complicating the U.S. position are comments from Chris Maier regarding the junta's alliance choices, suggesting that "they’re the dog that caught the car." Maier elaborated that without delivering on governance and security, the junta could face challenges that surpass the reach of Russian propaganda.
The withdrawal of U.S. troops from Niger marks a significant pivot in American foreign policy in Africa. It underscores the complexities of international diplomacy and military strategy in a region increasingly influenced by global power competitions. The ongoing negotiations and strategic shifts will undoubtedly continue to shape U.S. and Russian engagements in Africa.
