‘Vulnerable’ countries are rebuffing demands for reforms and are turning to China and Russia for security, officials have said
The US government is facing a “reckoning” over its Africa policy after being ordered to withdraw more than 1,000 troops from Niger and losing access to a crucial drone base, Washington insiders have told Politico.
The US confirmed last week that it is planning an “orderly and responsible withdrawal” from Niger. The West African nation’s transitional government, which previously expelled French troops in a similar fashion, has opted for security cooperation with Russia. Neighboring Chad has also reportedly asked Americans to leave, as part of a wider regional shift away from Western powers on the continent.
Speaking to Politico, anonymous US officials have claimed the developments are down to America pursuing ideological goals when dealing with African nations. Washington has attempted to make aid conditional on democratic reforms and other political demands, which some African leaders have rebuffed, arguing that the US “ignores similar issues with allies in other parts of the world,” according to the report on Monday......more
