In Niger, Russian and US troops have been operating out of the same military base, Air Base 101, for several weeks, placing them in close proximity despite not sharing the same space. The presence of Russian troops at the base has been a point of contention between the US and Niger’s military junta, which wants US forces to leave. This situation has raised concerns among US officials that Niger may be turning toward Russia, shifting away from its previous role as a crucial foothold for US counterterrorism operations in the region for almost a decade.
US diplomatic and military officials, including Gen. Michael Langley and Celeste Wallander, expressed concerns about the escalating Russian military presence in Niger during a visit in March. The future of Air Base 101 and whether it would be ceded to the Russians were also raised as topics of discussion. Following the tense meeting, Niger announced the end of the accord that allowed US military personnel to operate in the country since 2014. The US military is now working with Nigerien officials to carry out an orderly withdrawal of troops, with plans to send another delegation to further discuss the withdrawal and obtain clearance for military flights in and out of the country.
Reuters first reported that Russian troops had entered Air Base 101 in Niger, highlighting the intensifying military cooperation between Russia and Niger. The disagreement between the US and the Nigerien junta over Russia’s increasing military presence has been ongoing, with both countries strengthening their ties in January. Russian media reported the deployment of equipment and 100 military trainers to Niger in April, although sources indicate that Russian troops had been present in the country before that.
In addition to the situation in Niger, the US military has withdrawn troops from a French military base in Chad after the country demanded they leave last month.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 in Chad’s capital, N’Djamena, have relocated to Germany. These movements reflect the shifting dynamics in the region as countries reassess their military partnerships and strategic priorities. The US, in particular, is facing challenges in maintaining its presence in key locations due to evolving geopolitical realities and changing relationships with host countries.
