US Grapples with Preserving US Military Bases in Africa Amid Niger Coup Uncertainty
The Biden administration is navigating how to maintain US military bases in Africa for anti-terror operations amid a recent coup in Niger. Despite concerns, keeping bases aids counterterrorism efforts given regional extremism. The challenge lies in balancing security and democratic values.
The US is hesitant to declare the situation a coup because they want to keep using the US military bases in Africa, which has helped monitor security threats in the region. (PHOTO: Africa Center for Strategic Studies)
Biden Administration Strategizes Maintaining US Military Bases in Africa Amid Niger Coup Fallout and Intelligence Concerns
The Biden administration is trying to figure out how to keep US military bases in Africa for anti-terror operations despite a recent military coup that ousted the country’s elected government. According to CNN, they’re considering options to continue gathering intelligence in Niger if the State Department officially labels it a coup, which would limit US military involvement and funding for Niger’s security. They might use waivers on national security grounds to navigate this legal challenge, as allowed by a recent spending bill.
Brig. Gen Moussa Barmou, who led the takeover of US military bases in Africa and has US training, is a key factor in this decision. Some officials believe he’s not against the US and could still cooperate, as reported. The US is hesitant to declare the situation a coup because they want to keep using the US military bases in Africa, which has helped monitor security threats in the region. Leaving it could create a security gap for extremist groups.
Debate Ensues Over Impact of Exiting US military bases in Africa on Counterterrorism Goals, While Biden Administration Faces Dilemma
Although leaving the US military bases in Africa might affect counterterrorism efforts, some argue it wouldn’t match long-term goals. According to KCRA, the current US presence helps with intelligence and reconnaissance, especially given Niger’s proximity to regions facing increased violent extremism. While the US boasted remote capabilities after leaving Afghanistan, the same approach in Niger would involve flying drones from distant bases and negotiating rights, potentially delaying operations.
As the Biden administration deals with the situation, the choice to stay in Niger matters for regional security and balancing counterterrorism with democratic values.
