France and the EU have taken a strong stance against the recent coup in Niger by cutting off financial support to the country. Following the toppling of Niger’s democratically elected president, President Mohamed Bazoum, the international community has expressed concern and condemned the coup.
France, as Niger’s former colonial power, called for an immediate return to the Nigerien constitutional order and expressed its disapproval of the coup. The European Union also took action by suspending all security cooperation with Niger and ending its financial support. Niger, being one of the world’s poorest countries, heavily relies on international assistance, and this suspension could have significant repercussions for the nation.
General Abdourahamane Tiani, who leads the country’s presidential guard, declared himself the new leader after detaining President Bazoum. However, leaders from various countries, including the United States and Russia, have demanded the release of the deposed president, but their calls have been ignored so far.
The African Union also joined in the condemnation, demanding that the military personnel involved in the coup return to their barracks and restore constitutional authority within 15 days. The AU warned of possible punitive measures if the rights of political detainees are not respected.
Both the EU and French President Emmanuel Macron expressed their willingness to support regional organizations like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) if they decide to impose sanctions on Niger in response to the coup.
Despite international pressure and demands for President Bazoum’s release, the coup plotters, backed by Niger’s military, have shown no signs of relenting. The situation remains tense, and the impact of international pressure on the coup leaders remains uncertain.
Niger’s strategic location in Africa’s Sahel region, known for various power grabs, adds further complexity to the situation. The country has been a key ally of Western nations in the fight against Islamist insurgencies in the region.
As the situation unfolds, the international community closely monitors developments in Niger, hoping for a peaceful resolution and the restoration of democratic governance in the country.