U.S. Seeks New Cooperation Path with Niger Amid Concerns Over Russian and Iranian Ties

Photo By: Air Force Tech. Sgt. Rose Gudex | U.S. servicemembers browse items for sale by Agadez vendors during a general bazaar at Air Base 201, Niger, March 2, 2024.

The U.S. is actively engaging with Niger to forge a new cooperation pathway, following concerns raised about Niger's potential engagements with Russia and Iran and the future status of U.S. forces in the nation. Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh informed the media about the discussions that took place last week between a high-level U.S. delegation and Nigerien officials, including Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine and members of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), Niger's ruling military junta.

The talks, described as lengthy and direct, aimed to address mutual concerns while respecting Niger's sovereignty. This diplomatic effort comes in the wake of Niger's March 16 announcement about terminating the status of forces agreement with the United States, prompting the U.S. to seek clarifications through diplomatic channels.

The delegation, featuring prominent figures such as Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley of U.S. Africa Command, Mary Catherine Phee, Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, and Celeste Wallander, Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, also engaged with civil society organizations, technical experts, and international diplomats during their visit.

The backdrop to these discussions includes a significant shift in Niger's political landscape, marked by a military coup on July 26 last year that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and installed Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani at the helm of the CNSP. Since the coup, the mission of the approximately 1,000 U.S. military personnel stationed in Niger has been limited to force protection, with a move from Air Base 101 in Niamey to Air Base 201 in Agadez and a pause on their counterterrorism activities.