The military pullout was initiated in March after a Nigerien military spokesperson said the country's transitional government, which took power in a coup last July, had terminated the military agreement with the US with immediate effect, citing the interests of the Nigerien people. On Tuesday, the Pentagon confirmed that Washington and Niamey had begun discussions for the "orderly withdrawal" of US servicemen based in Niger. Interior Minister Mohamed Toumba said on Wednesday that Niger is working on the withdrawal of US troops from the country, and a top US military official will visit the country soon.
"As part of ongoing US government negotiations with the National Committee for Safeguarding the Homeland (CNSP), US Ambassador to Niger Kathleen FitzGibbon and Major General Ken Ekman, Director of Strategy, Engagement and Programs for US Africa Command, will meet with CNSP officials in Niamey on April 25 to initiate discussions on an orderly and responsible withdrawal of US forces from Niger," Miller said.
He added that US Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict Christopher Maier and Lt. Gen. Dag Anderson, the Director for Joint Force Development, Joint Staff, will hold follow-up meetings in Niamey in the week of April 29 to "coordinate that withdrawal process with transparency and mutual respect."
"The United States is proud of the security cooperation and shared sacrifice of US forces and Nigerien forces, a partnership which effectively contributed to stability in Niger and the region. Amid discussion underway since July 2023, we have been unable to reach an understanding with the CNSP to continue that security cooperation in a manner that addresses the needs and concerns of each side. The United States welcomes CNSP interest in maintaining a strong bilateral relationship," Miller said.
The spokesperson added that US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt M. Campbell will travel to Niamey in the coming months "to discuss ongoing collaboration in areas of joint interest," saying that the US reaffirms its support for "the Nigerien people as they combat terrorism, develop the country’s economy, and transition to democratic rule."