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The United States announced that it will withdraw its troops from Niger, adding to France's recent decision to withdraw its military presence from the African country after the 2023 coup. The decision comes in a context of growing rejection of the presence of foreign forces and a change in the geopolitical dynamics, where Russia emerges as a new strategic ally for the military government that took control. We analyze the implications of the decision in this episode of Africa 7 Days.
The 2023 coup in Niger sparked strong anti-Western sentiment, triggering mass protests calling for the departure of foreign military forces. Faced with this pressure, the United States will begin the process of withdrawing its troops, around 1,000 troops who had been present as part of a joint operation to combat terrorism in the Sahel region.
France, another country with a significant military presence in Niger, also withdrew its troops in response to political instability and public rejection. The United States' decision to follow the same path marks a major shift in Western strategy in the region, where the fight against terrorism was a key objective.
Meanwhile, Russia has been strengthening its influence in Niger. After the coup d'état, the military government has sought new allies, turning to Russia to secure its position and acquire military resources. In early April, Russian military instructors arrived in Niger to install anti-aircraft systems that, according to Nigerien state television, are part of a cooperation agreement between the military junta and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The arrival of Russian instructors and the installation of the anti-aircraft system are clear signs of Russia's growing influence in the region. This could have significant implications for the security and stability of the Sahel, as it reflects a shift in geopolitical alliances and could alter the balance of power in the area.
The withdrawal of US and French troops from Niger, along with the increased Russian military presence, raises questions about the future of international cooperation in the region.
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