The United States is reassessing its counterterrorism operations in the Sahel region following Niger's junta announcement of terminating its military cooperation with the U.S. The decision came after a visit by top U.S. officials to the country.
The U.S. military has a significant presence in northern Niger, with hundreds of troops stationed at a major airbase conducting flights over the Sahel region, where jihadi groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State operate.
Recent visits by U.S. envoys and military officials aimed to engage with Niger's government, but it remains uncertain if negotiations can salvage the military cooperation.
Niger was considered a crucial partner in the fight against jihadi insurgencies in the region, with the U.S. and France investing heavily in military assistance and training. However, the situation changed when mutinous soldiers ousted the democratically elected president last year.
The junta's decision to suspend military ties remains unclear, with claims of illegal U.S. flights over Niger's territory and criticism of U.S. pressure tactics. Neighboring countries like Mali and Burkina Faso have turned to alternative security partners, including Russia.
The incident highlights the diminishing U.S. leverage in the region and raises questions about diplomatic strategies in West Africa. The U.S. delegation's recent visit coincided with the start of Ramadan, but junta leaders refused to meet them, citing a condescending tone.
Experts emphasize the need for a critical review of U.S. diplomacy in the region, considering broader geopolitical dynamics that impact bilateral relations. The evolving situation in Niger and the Sahel underscores the complexities of U.S. foreign policy in the region.
