Russian military personnel have been confirmed to have entered an airbase in Niger where some U.S. troops are located, according to two U.S. officials. The Russians have been in Niger for several weeks as the U.S. negotiates the withdrawal of its troops from two airbases in the country. Most of the roughly 1,000 U.S. troops still in Niger are at a second airbase in the city of Agadez, about 500 miles away from the capital. The Russians are described as trainers and are located about two miles from where a small number of U.S. troops are based at Niamey’s international airport.
The Russian presence on the base comes amid heightened tension between Washington and Moscow over U.S. support for Ukraine, more than two years into Russia’s ongoing invasion of the neighboring country. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin downplayed the risks of U.S. and Russian forces being in close proximity at the base in Niger, stating that the Russians are in a separate compound and do not have access to U.S. forces or equipment. Austin emphasized the importance of the safety and protection of U.S. troops and did not see a significant issue in terms of force protection.
Following a coup in Niger in July 2023, the U.S. was asked to withdraw its troops from the country, triggering U.S. laws that restrict the provision of military support and aid to Niger. Diplomatic efforts to restore ties with Niger have been unsuccessful since the military takeover was officially designated as a coup by Washington. The region surrounding Niger has experienced multiple coups in recent years, with Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso’s ruling juntas expressing support for Niger’s new military leaders.
Until recently, Niger was considered a key partner and ally by Washington in a region plagued by political unrest and weak central governments. The U.S. invested millions of dollars in the Agadez base, which was crucial for U.S. counterterrorism operations in the Sahel region. The Pentagon also announced plans to relocate most of the approximately 100 troops deployed in neighboring Chad. Chad is evaluating whether to continue its security agreement with the U.S. as tensions escalate in the region.
The situation in Niger reflects broader geopolitical dynamics as various countries, including Russia, seek to expand their influence in Africa. The presence of Russian military personnel in Niger highlights the evolving relationships between nations in the region, with implications for security and stability. The U.S. continues to navigate complex diplomatic and military challenges in Africa as it adjusts its presence and partnerships in response to changing political landscapes and security threats.
