Niger Terminates Defense Agreement With The U.S. See Why

iexclusivenews – In a move that underscores its commitment to the sovereignty, the military junta governing Niger has officially terminated a longstanding military agreement with the United States.

This accord previously permitted the presence of U.S. Department of Defense personnel, both military and civilian, on Nigerien soil.

U.S. Delegation’s Visit Sparks Diplomatic Tension

The announcement arrived in the wake of a visit by high-ranking U.S. officials, including Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee and U.S. Africa Command’s General Michael Langley.

Colonel Amadou Abdramane, the junta’s spokesperson, criticized the delegation for failing to adhere to diplomatic norms, citing a lack of communication regarding the delegation’s composition, arrival, and objectives.

READ MORE:

Nigeria Reinstates Borders and Lifts Sanctions On Niger 

Senator Ned Nwoko Confirms N1Billion Allocation for Constituency Project 

Delta Community Okuama In Flames After Killing Of Soldiers

Discussions Focus on Military Transition and Cooperation

Abdramane highlighted that the discussions with the U.S. delegation centered on Niger’s ongoing military transition, bilateral military cooperation, and the strategic selection of partners to combat extremist groups affiliated with al Qaeda and Islamic State.

U.S. Officials Engage in ‘Frank Discussions’

A U.S. official, requesting anonymity, acknowledged that “frank discussions” took place in Niamey, focusing on the direction of Niger’s ruling military council, known as the CNSP.

The official confirmed ongoing communication with the CNSP and promised updates as necessary.

Niger’s Junta Follows Regional Trend in Reassessing Partnerships

Following the precedent set by neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger’s junta has expelled French and other European forces, seeking support from alternative allies, notably Russia.

Nigerien Government Condemns U.S. Delegation’s Attitude

The junta’s spokesperson expressed regret over the perceived American attempt to influence Niger’s autonomy in selecting security partners.

Abdramane also condemned what he described as a patronizing stance and threats of retaliation from the American delegation’s leader.

U.S. Military Presence in Niger Under Scrutiny

Approximately 1,100 U.S. troops were stationed in Niger as of the previous year, operating from two bases, including the strategically significant drone base, Air Base 201.

Constructed near Agadez at a substantial cost, the base has been instrumental in targeting Islamic State and al Qaeda affiliates in the Sahel since 2018.

Junta Spokesperson Declares U.S. Troops’ Status Illegal

Abdramane declared the U.S. troops’ status and presence in Niger as unlawful, asserting that it contravened constitutional and democratic principles.

He claimed the arrangement was unilaterally enforced upon Niger in 2012 without proper consent.

Niger Revokes Agreement, Affirms National Decision-Making

However, Abdramane stated that, in light of these considerations, the Nigerien government has decisively revoked the agreement concerning the status of U.S. military and civilian defense personnel in the Republic of Niger, effective immediately.

This bold step reaffirms Niger’s right to self-determination in its defense affairs and partnerships.