Coup d'État in Niger

A coup d'état has taken place in Niger, with General Abdourahamane Tchiani declaring himself as the leader of the ongoing coup. The coup aims to overthrow President Mohamed Bazoum, who is currently being held captive with his family in the presidential residence in Niamey, the capital. General Tchiani, who was previously the head of the presidential guard, made a statement on national television, reaffirming the council's commitment to respecting international agreements. He called on Niger's partners and friends to trust their defense and security forces in this crucial stage of the country's life.

International Response

The European Union (EU) has strongly condemned the coup and threatened to suspend financial aid to Niger. The EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, stated that any breach of constitutional order would have consequences on the cooperation between the EU and Niger, including the immediate suspension of budgetary support. French President Emmanuel Macron, who is currently in Papua New Guinea, also condemned the military coup and called for the release of President Bazoum and the restoration of constitutional order. Macron will preside over a defense council meeting in Paris on Saturday to discuss the situation in Niger. France, which has 1,500 soldiers in Niger, considers Bazoum as the only democratically elected president of Niger and does not recognize the authorities resulting from the coup.

Widespread Condemnation

The coup in Niger has been met with widespread condemnation from the international community. The United States, through Secretary of State Antony Blinken, assured deposed President Mohamed Bazoum of their unwavering support and stated that the coup puts hundreds of millions of dollars in aid at risk. The US provides security assistance, development aid, and humanitarian assistance to Niger. The Nigerien military, which supports the coup, has accused France of violating border closures by landing a military plane at Niamey International Airport. The military putschists have announced the suspension of political party activities and called for calm after incidents during a pro-coup demonstration in Niamey.

Words of the day

Coup : Coup d'État

President : Président