Tense US-Africa Relations and Troop Reductions Highlight Military Leaders’ Meeting

US military officer Gen. CQ Brown is currently attending a chiefs of defense conference in Botswana to discuss the forced withdrawal of troops from bases in Niger and Chad and the potential relocation of some troops to other West African nations.

In the wake of military coups toppling democratic governments in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, these nations are reassessing their ties to the US and the West, turning to Russian-affiliated mercenaries for security assistance. Brown highlighted that as the US pulls out its 1,000 troops from Niger, including a crucial counterterrorism and drone base, other West African countries show interest in partnering with the US and might welcome a heightened American presence.

Brown and other defense officials stress that the conference is an opportunity to show African leaders that the US is open to listening and embracing local solutions. Adapting to solutions identified by Africans themselves, instead of imposing external Western ideals, is crucial. The Botswana meeting offers a chance to bolster military partnerships throughout the continent.

The downsizing of troops at key bases in Africa’s Sahel region raises worries about combating the rising violence by extremist groups, some linked to the Islamic State group and al-Qaida. The US is particularly concerned about extremist activities spreading from different factions into coastal West Africa.

After mutinous soldiers ousted Niger’s democratically elected president last July, the ruling junta in Niger directed US forces to exit the country. Additionally, the junta sought security assistance from the Russian mercenary group Wagner, leading French forces to be asked to leave as well.

In October, Washington formally classified the military takeover as a coup, triggering US regulations that curtail military support and aid. This development significantly affects the US, compelling the evacuation of troops from the critical drone base in Agadez, vital for counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel.

The evacuation of US forces and equipment from Niger is approximately 30% done and is scheduled to finish by September 15. The rate of withdrawal will vary as troops leave depending on the disassembly of their weapon systems and equipment.