Gen. Michael Langley Defends US Counterterrorism Strategy Amid Russian Influence in Africa

Gen. Michael Langley, Commander of US Africa Command, has defended the US military's counterterrorism strategy in Africa in the face of growing criticism and a shift towards Russian influence among African nations. In an interview with The Associated Press, Langley attributed the recent wave of military coups in the region to Russian disinformation efforts and vowed to continue promoting good governance despite setbacks in Chad and Niger.

Langley emphasized the importance of countering Russian disinformation, which he claimed has fueled anti-US sentiment and destabilized key regions. He stated, "There was negative sentiment across the last couple of years against one of our most valued allies — France — as you looked at all social media and looked all across media writ large. A lot of that negative sentiment was fueled by the misinformation and disinformation of the Russian Federation."

The US military's strategy in Africa focuses on promoting stability through good governance and institution-building, rather than solely relying on military might. Langley noted that the US approach contrasts with that of other global powers, such as Russia, which often provide security assistance with few stipulations. He remarked, "What the U.S. wants is what countries are asking for. We're not prescribing anything."

Despite facing challenges in Chad and Niger, where governments have increasingly sought security help from Russia, Langley vowed to press forward with the US strategy. He stated, "We need to get our narrative out there." The US currently has 6,000 military personnel stationed in Africa, with 1,000 in Niger and 100 in Chad, who are in the process of departing.

Why this matters: The US counterterrorism strategy in Africa has significant implications for global security and regional stability. If the US fails to counter Russian influence and promote good governance, it could lead to further destabilization and violence in the region.

The Sahel region, a key focus of the US counterterrorism strategy, has seen a significant increase in militant Islamist violence, with over 11,000 deaths reported last year. Military officers disillusioned with their governments' inability to stem the violence have overthrown democratically elected governments in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger since 2020, leading to a shift towards partnerships with Russia.

Langley highlighted the broader implications of the US strategy, which includes addressing non-combat issues such as climate change, crop failure, and tribal conflict. He stressed that the US plans to "double down and re-engage" with African countries, focusing on supporting them in ways they see fit rather than imposing its own ideas.

The US military's presence in Africa remains critical for monitoring security challenges, but its strategy is being re-evaluated in light of recent developments. The future of US bases in Africa will depend on guidance from West African countries about their security threats.

Gen. Langley's defense of the US counterterrorism strategy highlights the ongoing competition for influence in Africa between the US and Russia. The US seeks to promote stability and good governance, facing the challenge of countering Russian disinformation and maintaining its strategic partnerships in the region.

Key Takeaways

• Gen. Michael Langley defends US counterterrorism strategy in Africa amidst growing criticism.
• Langley blames Russian disinformation for fueling anti-US sentiment and destabilizing key regions.
• US strategy focuses on promoting stability through good governance, contrasting with Russia's security assistance.
• US has 6,000 military personnel in Africa, with 1,000 in Niger and 100 in Chad, who are departing.
• US seeks to counter Russian influence and promote good governance to prevent further destabilization.