A rally against the US presence is taking place in the capital of Niger.

Hundreds of Nigeriens have gathered in Niamey to protest the presence of US troops in the country, the Africa Initiative reports.Show more

1,100 US troops remain in the country, despite the cessation of military cooperation announced by Niger's transitional government shortly after a visit by a US delegation in March. A US drone base also continues to operate in Agadez, the largest city in northern Niger.

Earlier, the Pentagon said the decision to withdraw had not been finalized. Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder said talks on the evacuation of US troops were "still ongoing."

In mid-March, a delegation from Washington traveled to Niamey to discuss security, partnership, and development issues. The delegation included Under Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Fee, Under Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Celeste Wallander, and Africom Commander General Michael Langley.

The US delegation intended to encourage Niamey to "return to the democratic path." However, the senior US officials were unable to meet with the head of the transitional government, Abdourahamane Tchiani.