Russian Forces Enter US-Occupied Air Base in Niger Following Coup

US Diplomats and Pentagon Retreat from Niger

Following a military coup in Niger in July 2023, US diplomats and the Pentagon have been retreating from the West African nation, while simultaneously attempting to retain some influence. The coup resulted in the overthrow of the US-friendly government of President Mohamed Bazoum, who was taken hostage. The new military junta was quick to instruct US troops to leave the country, where it is estimated there were 1,100 US soldiers stationed. The junta has also been fostering closer ties with Russia and other 'anti-imperialist' nations, with French forces having already left the country.

Russian Troops Enter US Military Bases

Reports have emerged that Russian troops have begun entering US military bases, with American forces in the process of leaving, although some remain. This is reportedly occurring at Air Base 101 in Niamey, the capital city of Niger. There is some logistical overlap as Russian forces arrive and Pentagon personnel are pressured to leave. A senior US defense official has stated that Russian forces are not interacting with American troops at the base, but are using a separate hangar.

US Defense Secretary Downplays Situation

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has attempted to downplay the unusual situation, stating that Russian forces are in a separate compound and do not have access to US forces or equipment. Despite the pressure from the ruling junta and unsuccessful efforts to reverse the situation, the Pentagon has committed to leaving Niger, although a timeline for full withdrawal has not been confirmed.

Russian Presence Increases in Niger

Increased numbers of Russian forces and heavy equipment, including at least one air defense battery, began arriving in Niger last month. There are also reports that the private military firm Wagner may be present in the country. Meanwhile, the US has been reducing the military aid it provides to Niger, indicating that Washington is on the way out as Moscow moves in. This shift has sparked concerns that it could occur in other parts of Africa, impacting US AFRICOM's operations.

US Scrambles for Influence Following Coup

Since the military coup and the removal of President Bazoum, the Biden administration has been struggling to maintain influence. The situation has been further complicated by the junta's alignment with two other countries that are 'unfriendly' to the West - Mali and Burkina Faso, both of which are also led by juntas. One of the first major actions of Niger’s post-coup government was to expel France's 1,500 troops, who left the country in December. There are particular concerns about the fate of a major drone base, Air Base 201, which was recently built at a cost of $110 million and is crucial for Pentagon drone surveillance operations over the region.

What's Your Take?

These recent developments in Niger are a clear indication of the shifting geopolitical landscape in Africa. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do you think this could have wider implications for US influence in Africa? Share this article with your friends and let's get the conversation started. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.