US repositioning some troops in Niger, withdrawing others: Reuters

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
7 Sep 2023 22:04
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This marks the US' first major movement of troops since the Niger coup.

US and Niger flags are raised side by side at the base camp for air forces and other personnel supporting the construction of Niger Air Base 201 in Agadez, Niger, on April 16, 2018 (AP)

The United States is repositioning its military forces in Niger and withdrawing some non-essential personnel as a precautionary measure following the coup which overthrew Western-backed President Mohamed Bazoum, Reuters reported citing US officials.

The officials however declined to provide details on the troop movements and the evacuation effort.

The United States had 1,100 troops deployed to Niger prior to the recent departures.

It was reported earlier this week, that France began talks with Nigerien officials regarding the withdrawal of their troops from the country.

French sources reported that "discussions on the withdrawal of certain military elements have begun." At this point, neither the number of soldiers involved nor the circumstances of this departure have been officially agreed, but the idea has been accepted, according to the report.

On Saturday, thousands of people rallied in the Niger capital Niamey to call for the withdrawal of French troops from the country, as requested by the junta that seized power in June.

Protesters gathered near a French military base after several civic organizations issued the call for the withdrawal of French troops from the country.