Niger Coup Undermines US Counterterrorism Strategy
The recent military coup in Niger has raised concerns for Western interests in Africa, particularly in curbing the spread of Islamic jihadis in the Sahel region. Western countries have suspended aid to Niger, leaving the door open for Moscow's more martial approach, implemented by mercenaries from the Wagner Group. The coup has thrown into doubt the U.S. and European approach of combining social and economic reforms with military action to address the challenges of climate change, poverty, and inadequate services in the region. The situation in Niger highlights the broader geopolitical stakes and the potential for the Sahel to follow the path of neighboring countries like Mali, turning to Russia for support. The future of the Western-backed governance model for the Sahel remains uncertain.