(RepublicanJournal.org) – The United States has had a presence in Africa since the 1990s when the Africa Command (AFRICOM) was established. As of late, troops have been stationed in Niger, helping to battle terrorist forces. However, since the country’s ruling junta ended an agreement in March, the Biden Administration has had to work on a plan to pull troops from the region. Now, the president is receiving criticism over the diminishing relationship.
Russian influence has had a significant impact in Africa’s Sahel region. Niger is not only seeking the removal of US troops, but it’s letting Russian mercenaries move in, some of which are only just miles from the airbase housing American personnel. That has prompted some GOP senators to speak out.
Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) is one of the most vocal opponents criticizing Biden’s foreign policy, which he said, “has been a disaster on every continent, and Africa is no exception” in a statement to Fox News Digital. He said the souring relations on the continent — and others — proves “that the outcome of the November election will have massive consequences.” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) likened the Biden Administration to an “ostrich,” burying its head in the sand, rather than acting like a “superpower.”
Senator James Risch (R-ID) was more constructive in his criticism, saying it’s not too late for the United States to turn things around and it can do so “by taking stronger policy actions in partnership with the African people.”
Regarding the move of pulling the 1,000 troops from Niger, Washington has said it will abide by the junta’s decision, but it is still engaging in “frank discussions” with the nation’s authorities. However, it is working on a plan “to withdraw US forces in an orderly and responsible fashion,” per State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel.
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