Russian, US Troops Operating At Same Base In Niger Amid Ukraine War Tensions

Niamey: According to a United States defence official, Russian and US troops have been operating of the same military base for several weeks in Niger, CNN reported. Notably, this development has brought the two military forces into close proximity, amidst escalating tensions in Ukraine and the resistance of the junta to the withdrawal of US forces from the country. However, Russian and US troops are utilising separate facilities and operate out of Air Base 101 in Niger. The Russian soldiers occupy a different hangar in order to ensure physical separation from the US troops.

The presence of Russian troops at the base has fueled tensions between the US and Niger’s military junta, which seized power in a coup in July 2023. It raises concerns among US officials about Niger’s potential pivot towards Russia, particularly considering the country’s historical role as a vital hub for US counterterrorism efforts in the region.

In March, US diplomatic and military representatives, including Gen Michael Langley and Celeste Wallander, voiced apprehension during their visit to Niger about the escalating Russian military presence. Questions arose regarding the fate of Air Base 101 and the possibility of it being transferred to Russian control, CNN previously reported.

Following the tense meeting, Niger announced its decision to terminate the agreement allowing US military personnel and civilian staff to operate in the country since 2014. Consequently, the US military is collaborating with Nigerien authorities to facilitate an orderly withdrawal of troops from the nation, confirmed by the Pentagon.

Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh stated that another US delegation is scheduled to visit Niger “hopefully … this week” to discuss further the withdrawal process. However, military flights in and out of the country are contingent upon clearance from the Nigerien government.

The deepening military cooperation between Russia and Niger has been a focal point of contention between the US and the Nigerien junta. Russia’s Defense Ministry announced in January an agreement to bolster military ties with Niger, while Russian media disclosed plans to dispatch equipment and 100 military trainers to the country. Nonetheless, sources indicate that Russian troops had been present in Niger before April.

Upon the request of the government, the US military has begun the process of withdrawing soldiers from a French military base in Chad. A majority of the American military personnel stationed in N’Djamena have already been repositioned to Germany, CNN reported.