Niger’s ruling junta has doubled down on its demand that US troops withdraw, dealing a blow to Washington’s security interests in the Sahel.

Last month, military leader General Abdourahamane Tiani ordered US troops to leave after ending a military agreement.

At least 650 US personnel are stationed in Niger to monitor jihadist activity.

In a statement on Sunday, Niger’s junta said they had not benefited from the US military deal as it “turned out to be a fool’s bargain”, while accusing the US of exploiting Niger and interfering in its internal affairs.

The US State Department and Pentagon have downplayed Niger’s rejection of the military agreement, saying that talks between the two countries were continuing.