The U.S. has officially concluded its military operations in Niger, closing its last base in the region. The Pentagon confirmed the withdrawal from Air Base 201 in Agadez, marking the end of a prolonged presence.
In a collaborative statement, the Pentagon and Niger’s defense ministry stated: “This effort... will continue between U.S. and Nigerien armed forces over the coming weeks to ensure the full withdrawal is complete as planned.” Specific details on remaining U.S. assets were not disclosed.
The base in Agadez previously housed around 200 soldiers. This move follows France’s earlier exit from Niger, where it had significantly influenced uranium prices, using the country’s uranium resources to dictate prices 95% below the global market rate, thereby reducing its own energy costs.
The era of European and American dominance in Niger and the region appears to be concluding, as China and Russia expand their influence in the region.