In a significant strategic move, the United States has officially ordered the withdrawal of 1,000 combat troops from Niger, as reported by Politico on Friday. This decision comes amidst a shifting geopolitical landscape in West Africa, with Niger increasingly aligning itself with Russia.

Over the past few years, Niger has shown a growing inclination towards Russia, a trend that has caught the attention of Washington. The withdrawal of US troops marks a symbolic turning point in the region's geopolitical dynamics.

According to reports, Russian troops have swiftly moved into Niger, occupying a base near the capital city of Niamey, previously used by US forces. This development underscores Russia's expanding influence in the region, particularly as the US reevaluates its military presence in Africa.

US officials have indicated that the withdrawn troops from Niger will be redeployed to another African country, although specifics regarding the destination remain undisclosed.

The political landscape in Niger experienced a seismic shift last year when members of the Presidential Guard staged a military coup, ousting President Mohamed Bazome. General Abdur Rahman Chiani subsequently declared himself the head of Niger, consolidating military control.

While many European nations condemned the coup, neighboring countries like Burkina Faso and Mali indirectly supported the new military government. Russia and China also appeared to lend tacit support to the coup.

In the aftermath of the coup, Niger's military government took decisive actions, including ordering the expulsion of the French ambassador and revoking a military agreement signed with the United States in 2012. These actions signaled a clear departure from previous alliances and partnerships.

The United States had established a military presence in Niger, primarily aimed at combating armed groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and ISIS in the Sahel region of West Africa, in collaboration with Burkina Faso and Mali.

As the US repositions its military assets and reassesses its role in the region, the withdrawal from Niger underscores a broader realignment of alliances and interests in West Africa, with Russia emerging as a key player in the evolving geopolitical landscape.