"US Announces Troop Withdrawal from Niger Amid Concerns Over Russian Weapon Funneling"

The United States has agreed to withdraw its troops from Niger, following the country's request, marking the end of a military presence that totaled more than 1,000 and raising questions about the status of a $110 million U.S. air base. The decision comes after a military coup last year and strained negotiations with the U.S. over security cooperation. The move will significantly impact Washington's counterterrorism posture in the region, as Niger has seen a spike in Islamist extremist attacks. Despite the setback, U.S. officials hope to stabilize and deepen the partnership with Niger in other sectors.