US troops restricted to American base in Niger

US troops in Niger have been restricted to the American military base in Agadez, Niger, as the Biden administration works to restore democratically-elected President Mohamed Bazoum to power.

A US military official said the approximately 1,000 troops were "retrograded" back to the base last week, shortly after Bazoum was seized by members of the presidential guard on Wednesday.

The US has not yet formally decided if the situation constitutes a coup - a designation that would require the US to cut foreign and military assistance to the Nigerien government, which could have serious consequences for the fight against terrorism and stability in the region. There is no timeframe in which the US is required to make a coup designation.

"We're working really, really hard to see if we can turn this around," said a senior State Department official on Monday. "Since the situation is not yet set and concrete, we think we should try and take that opportunity."

On Thursday, the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley spoke with his counterpart in Niger.

"The two leaders discussed the safety of Americans and the developing situation in Niger," Col. Dave Butler said in a statement Monday.

US officials continue to stress that the situation is incredibly fluid, and that their focus is on diplomatic efforts, along with regional partners, to restore democratic rule in Niger.