Niger: Former US Military Base Comes Under Russian Control

A group of Russian military advisers, who arrived in Niger at the invitation of the interim government headed by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, entered a US military base immediately after the Pentagon’s decision to withdraw its military contingent from this West African country. On March 17, the military authorities that have governed Niger since the July 2023 coup announced the termination “effective immediately” of agreements that allowed the United States to use military and civilian personnel in the country. The expulsion of the Americans followed a similar action against France, which was forced to withdraw some 1500 French soldiers.

There are currently about 650 star-spangled soldiers still in Niger. A US Defense Department official who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity told Reuters, “The air base in question is Air Base 101, located near the Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, the capital of Niger.” The Russian soldiers occupied a hangar separate from where the US soldiers are still stationed and to which they have not yet had access. The US official called the situation “manageable,” emphasizing that for the moment “there are no clashes, and the situation is under control.” Additionally, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin downplayed the risks in his comments about the episode: “I don’t see a significant problem in the defense of our armed forces,” the Pentagon chief said.

Following the coup d’état, immediately characterized by strong anti-Western and pro-Russian sentiments, the interim government of Niger demanded the withdrawal of French and American soldiers. After much negotiation, the White House finally agreed to withdraw its armed forces. Over the past year, Nigeran soldiers have moved closer to Russia, seeking economic and military support. The Kremlin is sending humanitarian aid, such as grain and fertilizer, to Niger and neighboring countries Mali and Burkina Faso.