In a development that has raised concerns among military officials, Russian and US troops have been operating out of the same military base in Niger for several weeks, according to a US defense official and another source familiar with the matter.

The military base, known as Air Base 101, has seen the Russians utilizing a separate hangar, ensuring that they are not operating in close proximity to the American troops. However, the sources have highlighted the limited space available, emphasizing the potential for tensions to escalate.

The presence of Russian forces at Air Base 101 has become a major point of contention between the US and Niger's military junta, which seized power in a coup in July 2023. These developments further underline US officials' concerns about Niger's shifting alignment towards Russia, particularly amid heightened tensions over the war in Ukraine.

Earlier this year, US diplomatic and military officials, including Gen. Michael Langley and Assistant Secretary of Defense Celeste Wallander, expressed their concerns during a visit to Niger. They raised questions about the future of Air Base 101 and whether it might be handed over to the Russians.

Following the tense meeting, Niger announced the termination of the agreement that allowed US military personnel and civilian staff to operate in the country since 2014. Subsequently, the US military is now collaborating with Nigerien officials to carry out an orderly withdrawal of troops from the country, confirmed by the Pentagon.

In another development, it has been reported that Russian troops entered Air Base 101. The escalating military cooperation between Russia and Niger has been at the center of the dispute between the US and the Nigerien junta. In January, Russia's Defense Ministry announced an agreement to strengthen military ties with Niger, and in April, Russian media reported the deployment of 100 military trainers and equipment to the country.

As tensions continue to rise, the US military has already withdrawn troops from a French military base in Chad after the country demanded their departure last month. Over half of the US troops stationed at the base in Chad's capital have relocated to Germany.

The US is now working on obtaining clearance from the Nigerien government for military flights to facilitate the withdrawal of troops. Another delegation is expected to visit Niger to discuss the withdrawal further, according to Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh.

The situation in Niger remains fluid as the military presence of both Russia and the US continues to evolve. Experts have noted the significance of these developments within the geopolitical landscape and the potential consequences for regional stability.