The European Union (EU) will end its military mission in Niger by June 30, 2024, due to the current political situation under the country’s military rulers, the EU announced on Monday.
The EU’s decision follows the 2023 coup in Niger, which has shifted the country’s alliances from the West to other options, which include Russia.
Previously, Niger was a key partner for the West in fighting militants in Africa’s Sahel region, where violence has led to thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions.
“The Council today decided not to extend the European Union military partnership mission in Niger (EUMPM) beyond June 30 2024, given the grave current political situation in the country,” the EU stated.
The mission, EUMPM, which started in 2022, involved about 50-100 European troops focused on logistics and infrastructure support. The junta-led government in Niger has asked France to withdraw its forces and has agreed to the removal of American soldiers while seeking closer ties with Russia.
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