US Faces Strategic Setback as Niger Coup Threatens Key Air Base 201

The United States is on the verge of losing its strategic Air Base 201 in Niger, a significant military asset in sub-Saharan Africa, following a 2023 military coup that ousted the pro-US leader. This development marks a troubling trend of Western allies in the region shifting towards neutrality or alignment with Russia and China.

Niger's new military junta has ordered the departure of 1,000 US military service members and contractors from the country, while simultaneously allowing Russian Wagner mercenaries to occupy the same airbase. This shift in military cooperation signals a drastic change in Niger's foreign policy, moving away from Western alliances towards closer ties with Moscow.

Why this matters: The loss of Air Base 201 would significantly undermine US counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel region, allowing jihadist groups to gain a foothold. This development also highlights the growing influence of Russia and China in Africa, which could have long-term implications for global security and US foreign policy.

The situation has drawn sharp criticism from GOP policymakers. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) described the Biden administration's foreign policy as a 'disaster,' asserting that 'the Russians and Chinese are working overtime to oust the U.S. from a region that will soon be home to a quarter of the earth's population.' Scott emphasized that the outcome of the upcoming election would have significant consequences for America's global standing.

The US has been a key partner in Niger's counterterrorism efforts, particularly in the Sahel region, where Islamist terror activity is on the rise. The loss of Air Base 201, which was built by the United States for $110 million and is the largest drone base in Africa, would significantly undermine US military operations in the region. The base has been pivotal in monitoring and combating jihadi groups linked to al-Qaida, the Islamic State group, and Boko Haram.

In response to the coup, the US and Nigerien governments have announced a phased withdrawal of American forces, with all troops expected to leave by September 15, 2024. The withdrawal plan, which aims to ensure order and security, was coordinated through high-level talks between US and Nigerien officials in Niamey. The two sides have established procedures for the safe withdrawal of US forces, including flight and landing clearances for military planes.

Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict, Christopher P. Maier, and Lieutenant General Dagvin R.M. Anderson met with Niger's military representatives, led by Col. Maj. Mamane Sani Kiaou, to finalize the withdrawal details. Niger's military stated that the withdrawal would be carried out with 'mutual respect and transparency.'

This development is part of a broader trend of increasing Russian and Chinese influence in Africa. Russia has been expanding its military presence on the continent, including efforts to secure a naval base in Libya and military cooperation with West African countries. This strategic shift poses challenges for the US as it seeks to maintain its influence and counterterrorism capabilities in the region.

The loss of Air Base 201 in Niger represents a significant setback for the US, both in terms of military strategy and geopolitical influence. As the situation continues to evolve, the implications for regional security and US foreign policy remain uncertain.

Key Takeaways

• Niger's military coup ousts pro-US leader, threatening US Air Base 201.
• Russian Wagner mercenaries to occupy airbase, shifting Niger's allegiance.
• US to withdraw 1,000 troops and contractors from Niger by September 15, 2024.
• Loss of Air Base 201 undermines US counterterrorism efforts in Sahel region.
• Russia and China's growing influence in Africa poses challenges for US foreign policy.