The government of Niger has not asked the United States to leave, US Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Celeste Wallander said in a congressional testimony on Thursday.
"At this point, the CNSP self-identified government of Niger has not asked or demanded that the United States military depart. There is actually quite a mixed message. We are following up and seeking clarification," Wallender told the US House Armed Services Committee. "They have assured us that American military forces are protected and they will take no action that would endanger them."
Recently, a source from Niger's government told Sputnik that the country awaits a plan from the United States to withdraw troops from the nation, adding that it is necessary for the Americans to offer the government an exit plan since they are the ones who know what they have in Niger.