Russian and US Troops Operating at Same Base in Niger

 

Russian and US Troops Operating at Same Base in Niger Amid Tensions

In a surprising development, Russian and US troops have been operating out of the same military base in Niger for several weeks, despite heightened tensions between the two nations. The base, known as Air Base 101, has been a crucial foothold for US counterterrorism operations in the region for nearly a decade. However, the presence of Russian troops has raised concerns among US officials, who fear Niger is turning towards Russia.

The Russian troops have been using a separate hangar on the base, but the proximity of the two militaries has sparked unease. The situation has been a major point of contention between the US and Niger's military junta, which seized power in a July 2023 coup. The junta has made it clear it wants US forces to leave the country.

The US has been working to withdraw its troops from Niger, but the process has been complicated by the Russian presence. In March, US officials, including Gen. Michael Langley and Celeste Wallander, visited Niger to express concerns about the escalating Russian military presence. However, just days later, Niger announced it was ending the accord that allowed US military personnel and civilian staff to operate in the country.

The US military is now working with Nigerien officials to carry out an orderly withdrawal of troops. Another delegation is set to visit Niger this week to further discuss the withdrawal. However, the US is still seeking clearance from the Nigerien government for military flights in and out of the country.

The intensifying military cooperation between Russia and Niger has been central to the dispute between the US and the Nigerien junta. Russia and Niger agreed to strengthen their military ties in January, and Russian media reported that Russia was sending equipment and 100 military trainers to Niger in April. However, sources indicate that Russian troops were in the country well before April.

Meanwhile, the US military has already withdrawn troops from a French military base in Chad after the country demanded they leave last month. More than half of the US troops stationed at the base have now left the country and relocated to Germany.

The situation highlights the growing competition between the US and Russia in Africa, as well as the complexities of US counterterrorism operations in the region. As the US withdraws its troops from Niger, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and what implications it will have for regional security.