France's Response to Niger Coup d'État

In light of the recent coup d'état in Niger, France has made the decision to evacuate its citizens from the country due to the deteriorating situation in Niamey. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement announcing this decision, citing the violence against their embassy and the closure of airspace as factors preventing French nationals from leaving on their own. The evacuation operation will commence immediately.

Communication and Coordination

The French Embassy in Niamey has informed French citizens in Niger about the upcoming evacuation through a message. The message highlights the worsening security situation and the ongoing preparations for an air evacuation in Niamey. It assures that the operation will be carried out swiftly. The embassy emphasizes that the evacuation has been coordinated with the Nigerien forces. The specific details regarding the assembly and departure point will be communicated to French nationals as soon as possible, and they will be required to make their own way to the assembly point. Currently, there are approximately 500 to 600 French nationals in Niger.

Accusations and Regional Response

The military officials who orchestrated the coup in Niger and ousted President Mohamed Bazoum have accused France of having military intervention intentions, a claim that Paris has denied. During a demonstration by coup supporters in front of the French embassy in Niamey, thousands of people attempted to enter the embassy but were dispersed by tear gas grenades. The Nigerien coup leaders have reported six injured individuals who have been taken to hospitals in the capital. Niger's neighboring countries in West Africa have threatened to use force if President Bazoum is not reinstated within seven days. This decision has received support from Western partners, including France, the former colonial power in the Sahel region which has been plagued by jihadist violence.

Solidarity and Condemnation

In addition to France, other countries have expressed their concerns and taken action in response to the situation in Niger. Burkina Faso and Mali, in solidarity with Niger, have declared that any military intervention aimed at restoring President Bazoum would be seen as a declaration of war against them. They have also threatened to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and adopt measures of legitimate defense in support of the armed forces and people of Niger. The European Union has condemned the arrest of ministers by the Nigerien coup leaders and has demanded their immediate release. Josep Borrell, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, called for their release in a tweet.

Ensuring Safety and Monitoring

As the evacuation of French nationals from Niger is about to commence, it is crucial to prioritize their safety and ensure a smooth and coordinated operation in collaboration with the Nigerien forces. The situation in Niger remains tense, and the international community will continue to closely monitor developments in the country.

Words of the day

evacuation : évacuation

embassy : ambassade