General Michael Langley, the head of the US Africa Command (AFRICOM), confirmed ongoing US involvement with the governments of Niger and Chad in spite of recent troop withdrawals from these countries. This statement comes after the US pulled dozens of troops from Chad amid local military concerns related to the upcoming elections on May 6. Additionally, in Niger, the US faced a direct order from the country’s junta leading to the departure of American forces last month.
In Niger, the vacated spaces are being filled by Russian military instructors following a new agreement between Niger’s military leaders and Russia. This shift occurs alongside a broader realignment in the Sahel region, where several military-led countries have been strengthening ties with Russia and distancing themselves from France, their former colonial ruler. These nations are grappling with an escalating Islamist insurgency, which has led to the disbandment of the G5 Sahel force, previously partnered with international efforts to combat Islamist militants. In its place, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali have formed the Alliance of Sahel States.
Despite these challenges, General Langley emphasized that the US’s strategic goal remains to foster dialogue with the juntas to guide them towards democratic governance. He highlighted that discussions with Chadian leaders continue, with Chad expressing interest in maintaining a partnership with the US to combat terrorism. In Niger, the future of US military involvement will depend on ongoing discussions and the evolving security situation, always respecting the sovereignty and requests of the host nation.
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