BOSTON (AP) — There has been no final decision on whether or not all U.S. troops will leave Niger and Chad, two African countries that are integral to the military’s efforts to counter violent extremist organizations across the Sahel region, a top U.S. military official told The Associated Press on Wednesday.
Niger’s ruling junta ended an agreement last month that allows U.S. troops to operate in the West African country.
The government of neighboring Chad in recent days also has questioned its agreement with the U.S., Joint Chiefs Vice Chairman Adm. Christopher Grady, the nation’s second-highest-ranking military officer, said in an interview.
The agreements allow the U.S. to conduct critical counterterrorism operations within the countries’ borders and have supported military partner training in both nations. The reversals have prompted concern that U.S. influence in Africa is losing ground to overtures from Russia and China.
A portrait by Gustav Klimt has been sold for $32 million at an auction in Vienna
Barges break loose on Ohio River in Pittsburgh, damaging a marina and striking a bridge
Chinese brands top Israel's electric car sales in Jan.
Energy storage industry put on fast track in China
Pennsylvania redesigned its mail
Consumption upgrade boosts new productive forces
Sydney mall stabbing: Police identify the attacker who killed 6 people
China sees robust recovery, vigorous growth in cultural, tourism industries: minister
The WNBA's Dallas Wings are planning a move downtown from the suburbs in two years
Metamorphic rock oilfield in Bohai Sea sees cumulative proven reserves over 200 mln cubic meters
Ashley Roberts puts on a VERY cheeky display in a nude long
CPEC hydropower station starts impoundment in NW Pakistan