Following the State Department’s designation of the removal of Niger’s democratically elected president as a coup, U.S. aid, including equipment and training to the country, is officially suspended. The U.S. Army had been actively involved in moving troops and equipment within Niger, and while most of their mission is complete, further instructions are awaited due to policy changes. The U.S. has been assisting Niger in its defense against extremist groups like the Islamic State. However, the current political upheaval mandates a reevaluation of their ongoing mission in the region.
Key Points:
- The U.S. State Department has officially designated the removal of Niger’s president as a coup, leading to the suspension of U.S. aid.
- The U.S. Army had been relocating troops and equipment in Niger, mainly for Special Operations Command-Africa.
- Maj. Gen. Todd Wasmund states that while some operations are suspended, they await further policy instructions for their continued mission.
- The primary aim of the U.S. mission in Niger is to assist the nation against threats from extremist groups, including the Islamic State.
- The U.S. is in communication with Niger’s military government, CNSP, to restore democratic order and ensure the safety of U.S. assets and personnel in the midst of this political crisis.
