U.S. military completes withdrawal from key drone base in Niger

The U.S. military has completed its withdrawal from air base 201 in Niger, following the ruling junta's order to remove nearly 1,000 American personnel after last year's coup.

This $100 million drone base near Agadez was vital for intelligence on Islamist militants.

A joint statement from Niger's defense ministry and the U.S. military confirmed the withdrawal, noting smooth coordination.

The junta has set a deadline of September 15 for all U.S. troops to leave.

The decision came after U.S. concerns about the arrival of Russian forces and Iran's interest in Niger's resources, including uranium.

Last month, U.S. troops also left air base 101.