US Completes Military Withdrawal from Niger

The United States military has completed its withdrawal from Niger, following the demands of the ruling military junta, which annulled a long-standing agreement allowing US troops to operate in the country. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh confirmed that the withdrawal was finalized on September 15, 2024, and a small number of American personnel remain for embassy support. The departure of nearly 1,000 troops marks a significant shift in US involvement in West Africa, where Niger was previously a key ally in counterterrorism efforts against extremist groups linked to al-Qaida and ISIS. The US military had been training Nigerien forces and conducting operations in the region, but this relationship has deteriorated as Niger has sought closer ties with Russia. The withdrawal poses challenges for US intelligence and counterterrorism strategies in a region increasingly plagued by jihadist violence. The Pentagon acknowledged the sacrifices made by troops from both nations during their partnership.