US Senate Votes to Maintain Troops and Drone Base in Niger Despite Criticism

The US Senate voted 86-11 to maintain a military presence of 1,000 troops and a drone base in Agadez, Niger, despite criticism from Senator Rand Paul. The vote comes amid political instability in Niger, with the military junta demanding the withdrawal of US forces and the arrival of Russian military personnel in the country.

The US had previously agreed to withdraw its more than 1,000 troops from Niger, upending its posture in West Africa where the country was home to a major drone base. The withdrawal was agreed upon in a meeting between the US Deputy Secretary of State and the prime minister of the Nigerien junta. A US delegation was set to visit Niamey within days to arrange an orderly withdrawal.

Niger was a key part of the US and French strategy to combat jihadists in West Africa, with the US building a $100 million drone base in Agadez. However, the military in Niger has since sacked the president, a key Western ally, and sought closer ties with Russia, like the governments in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso.

The US had planned to withdraw these troops, but the Senate vote indicates that the US intends to continue its counter-terrorism and global security operations in the region through these bases. This comes amid protests by hundreds of Nigeriens against the presence of US troops, and the ruling junta revoking the military accord that allowed US military personnel and civilian staff on its soil.

Why this matters: The situation in Niger highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in West Africa, with the US seeking to maintain its military presence and counter-terrorism operations while facing opposition from local governments and populations. The outcome could have significant implications for regional stability and the fight against jihadist groups.

The Pentagon is seeking clarification on the way forward, as the US continues to communicate with Niger's ruling military council. The United States is attempting to create a new military agreement with Niger that would allow it to remain in the country, despite the junta's previous statement that the U.S. presence was no longer justified. "The U.S. is now working on a revised agreement to maintain its presence, as it is seen as essential for counterterrorism operations and protecting military and diplomatic staff in the region," according to sources familiar with the discussions.

Key Takeaways

• US Senate voted 86-11 to maintain 1,000 troops and a drone base in Niger.
• Niger's military junta demands US withdrawal and welcomes Russian forces.
• US had agreed to withdraw troops, but Senate vote indicates intent to stay.
• Protests by Nigeriens against US presence, junta revokes military accord.
• US seeks new military deal with Niger to maintain presence for counterterrorism.