Western reports expect an increase in the influence of Russia and China in Africa after the withdrawal of US forces from Niger

Western media reports said that the withdrawal of American forces from Niger will weaken American capabilities in the region and will strengthen the influence of Russia, Iran, and China in Africa.

A report published by The Hill newspaper described “the expulsion from Niger as a major setback for the US military in confronting extremist groups” in the Sahel region of Africa.

According to the newspaper, this “will jeopardize American counter-terrorism operations, and will also increase Russian influence in Africa and fragment Western relations on the (African) continent.”

The newspaper pointed out that the withdrawal of American forces “endangers the United States containing ISIS, Boko Haram, and other insurgents,” and will also enhance “an increase in the influence of Russia, Iran, and China.”

The newspaper added, "It appears that Western powers such as the United States and the European Union are losing the battle for the Sahel."

She also noted that in addition to Niger, Russia has “close relations and security agreements with Mali and Burkina Faso,” as well as Libya and the Central African Republic.

In March, Niger terminated a military agreement with the United States , under which an American drone base was established in the north of the African country.

The military authorities in Niger said that the agreement was imposed on the country and does not meet the interests of the people.

On April 22, Pentagon spokesman Patrick Ryder confirmed that the United States had begun consultations with Niger regarding withdrawing its forces from this African country.