Niger Ends Military Agreement with US, Straining Relations
NIAMEY — In a bold move, Niger’s military government has officially terminated an agreement with the US that permitted American military personnel and civilian staff from the Department of Defense to operate within Niger’s borders. This decision comes just days after high-level discussions with US diplomatic and military officials earlier this week.
The announcement was made by Niger military spokesman Col.- Maj. Amadou Abdramane in a televised statement, citing the government’s consideration of the people’s desires and interests. Abdramane emphasized that the 2012 agreement, which was imposed on Niger, was in violation of the country’s sovereignty and democratic principles.
Once a key regional partner for the US, Niger’s relationship with the United States has deteriorated since a military junta seized power in July 2023, prompting the US to withdraw a significant portion of its troops stationed in the country.
Despite the strategic importance of Niger in countering terrorism in the region, the Pentagon is now reassessing its military presence following the agreement’s termination. President Joe Biden previously reported that approximately 648 US military personnel are still deployed in Niger.
The decision to end the agreement followed a visit by a senior US delegation to Niger, which Nigerien officials criticized for lacking transparency and respect for diplomatic protocols. Discussions during the visit centered on the military transition in Niger and bilateral military cooperation.
In a strong rebuke, Abdramane accused the US of undermining Niger’s sovereignty and attempting to dictate its partnerships. He also dismissed allegations of a secret agreement with Russia and Iran, calling out the US for its condescending attitude.
This move by Niger signals a significant shift in international relations and could have lasting implications for the longstanding ties between the two countries. CNN has reached out to the US Department of Defense for comment on the situation. — CNN
