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 great escape! Family poodle gets trapped underneath kitchen
China emphasizes neighborly cooperation in diplomacy: NPC spokesman
Draft gov't work report discussed at key meeting
Eco park adjacent to residential buildings enables villagers to enjoy scenic views
Wisconsin prison inmate pleads not guilty to killing cellmate
France guarantees right of abortion
Xi urges young officials to take on historical task on new journey
Arkansas panel bans electronic signatures on voter registration forms
Spirit of the Silk Road lives on in Xi'an
Groups urge Alabama to reverse course, join summer meal program for low
Patrols near Kinmen 'beyond reproach'