US military to withdraw troops from Niger by mid-September

The US and Niger agreed that US military forces will leave Niger by September 15. Even though the deadline is approaching, US officials believe there is potential for a continued relationship with Niger. The Nigerien military government ended an agreement with the US in March, but discussions have been ongoing to ensure a safe withdrawal of US forces and military flights. US troops are now restricted to the base in Niamey, the capital, where Russian forces are also present. The US has been working with Niger for over a decade on counterterrorism efforts. The Nigerien military sees the US withdrawal as a change but not the end of their relationship. The US delegation, led by Chris Meier, confirmed protection for American forces during the withdrawal. The US is still deciding what military equipment will remain in Niger. The decision for US troops to leave Niger was made after talks between the two countries' defense officials. Niger's request for American forces to leave has impacted US military operations in the Sahel region, where groups linked to al-Qaida and ISIS operate. The military cooperation between the US and Niger was affected after the country's democratically elected president was ousted by mutinous soldiers last year. The US has invested heavily in Niger, including in the Agadez base, which has been crucial for US counterterrorism efforts in the region. The US has also provided significant training to Niger's military since 2013. Talks are ongoing about relocating US forces from neighboring Chad and revising agreements for US troops to be based there.