The withdrawal of US troops from Niger, deployed as part of the anti-jihadist effort in the Sahel, is taking shape. Last week, Washington agreed to withdraw its soldiers from the country. A meeting on the modalities is taking place this Thursday, April 25th, in Niamey, announced the US State Department.
Discussions on an orderly and responsible withdrawal of American forces from Niger begin on Thursday, April 25th, in Niamey. On the American side, Ambassador to Niger Kathleen FitzGibonn and Major General Kenneth Ekman, Director of Strategy, Engagement, and Programs at the US Africa Command, are meeting with members of the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP). And this is just the beginning.
Next week, other senior US military officials will hold follow-up meetings in Niamey. These discussions on the withdrawal process are expected to take place “with transparency and mutual respect,” according to the State Department’s statement. According to the spokesperson for US diplomacy, the United States is proud of its security cooperation with Niger over the years. However, discussions since July 2023 have failed to reach an agreement with the CNSP to continue this cooperation.
However, the partnership will continue in other areas of common interest. The visit of the US Deputy Secretary of State to Niamey is announced in the coming months to discuss this. But American soldiers, on the other hand, will be leaving.