You Won’t Believe What West Africa Just Did To France, This Changes The Entire Game For Africa
You Won’t Believe What West Africa Just Did To France, This Changes The Entire Game For Africa
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In a groundbreaking turn of events, Niger, alongside two other West African countries, is boldly stepping away from what many perceive as oppressive Western policies in international cooperation. The recent military coup in Niger, resulting in the ousting of the French-leaning government, has paved the way for a decisive shift in the nation’s stance. Niger has unequivocally stated that every French soldier will bid adieu by December 22, marking the end of a long-standing relationship.
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Tensions between Niger and France reached a tipping point, leading to France’s decision to withdraw its troops by the year’s end. Recent reports from Niger indicate that a significant 80% of the French forces have already left the country.
The withdrawal process, integral to the anti-jihadist mission in Niger, is set to conclude by December 22, as confirmed by the country’s army on December 12. This move comes in the aftermath of the coup in July, during which Niger’s military rulers annulled defense agreements with France, a historical security ally.
President Emmanuel Macron had earlier announced the departure of French forces by the end of the year, with the initial group leaving in October. In an official statement, the Nigerien army affirmed, “By December 22, all French soldiers, along with their logistics, will have left Niger for good.“ The withdrawal has been described as “coordinated and safe“ by the army.
Media reports from Niger indicate that 1,346 French troops and a substantial 80% of their logistical equipment have departed, leaving only 157 soldiers behind. The new leadership in Niger is redirecting its security focus away from Western partners and towards strengthening connections with Mali and Burkina Faso, both currently under military rule.
As the last French soldiers bid farewell to Niger, there’s a notable development—the first Russian officials are warmly welcomed by Abdourahamane Tiani’s junta. On December 4, the general, who assumed control after the coup, hosted the Russian deputy defense minister, Colonel General Yunus-bek Yevkurov, in a remarkable visit. Similar to Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger’s new leaders are making headlines by announcing the “strengthening of defense cooperation“ with Moscow.
Changes are also afoot in Burkina Faso, where concerns about security affecting gold production have prompted adjustments in leadership. Yacouba Zabre Gouba is now the new mining and energy minister, following a revision of the mining code to increase royalties during prosperous times.
The shift in leadership reflects ongoing efforts to address challenges in critical sectors like mining and energy. Gold production in Burkina Faso faced a 4% decline in the first nine months of the year, totaling 41.9 tons, compared to the same period the previous year.
There’s a palpable discontent with the West in the region, fueled by elements of Western neocolonialism in Sahel economies. Political changes in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have led to their withdrawal from the G5 alliance, and a call for the removal of French military forces has given rise to a new Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
This geopolitical shift has significant implications for the West, which has been losing ground in its dealings with African states. Niger, in particular, has taken further steps to cut ties with one of its key Western partners, criticizing agreements governing European support for its defense and security forces.
The exit of the French has prompted Niger to request the departure of European missions, Eucap Sahel and EUMPM, further severing ties with Western entities. The country had earlier demanded the removal of the French ambassador and the withdrawal of 1,500 French soldiers.
Russia is emerging as a preferred partner for African nations, offering military support without demanding human rights accountability. Mali, Burkina Faso, and now Niger have embraced Russian assistance, marking a shift in alliances and geopolitical dynamics.
The formation of the AES by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger challenges the existing neo-colonial construct, with Russia strategically engaging with these nations. The recent visit of the Russian deputy defense minister underscores the growing influence and cooperation between Russia and the Sahel states.
Reactions from regional alliances like ECOWAS and Western nations, including the U.S. and France, have varied. Initially proposing military intervention, ECOWAS faced public outrage, leading to the shelving of the proposal.
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