In a major development, French President Emmanuel Macron has declared that France will withdraw its ambassador and end all military collaboration with Niger as a response to the recent coup that took place in the country. Macron stated that France has decided to recall its ambassador and diplomats, who will return to France in the coming hours. He further emphasized that military cooperation between the two nations is now terminated, and French troops will be departing in the upcoming months. The coup, which occurred on July 26, led to the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum and has been preceded by months of tension and protests against the French presence in Niger, primarily concentrated in the capital city of Niamy.
This decision by France to disengage from Niger carries significant consequences, impacting both France’s counter-terrorism operations in the Sahel and its influence in the region. With approximately 1,500 French soldiers stationed in Niger, the withdrawal of troops will undoubtedly pose challenges to the counter-terrorism efforts undertaken by France. The Sahel region has been grappling with extremist violence and terrorism, and the diminished French military presence can potentially undermine the stability and security of the region. Furthermore, France’s departure will likely result in a power vacuum that may lead to increased internal conflicts and political instability.
President Macron, however, affirmed that France would not allow itself to be subjected to the will of the coup plotters. He expressed unwavering support for President Bazoum, considering him to be the sole legitimate authority in Niger. Macron conveyed his admiration for Bazoum’s determination in implementing crucial reforms and condemned the coup as an act driven by both ethnic grievances and political cowardice.
The strained relationship between France and the military leaders in Niger became apparent after they instructed the French ambassador, Sylvain Itte, to leave the country following the overthrow of President Bazoum. Despite a 48-hour ultimatum given to the ambassador to depart, he remained in place, defying the military regime’s demands. The French government refused to recognize the coup leaders as a legitimate authority and refrained from complying with their orders.
Adding to the escalating tensions, the coup leaders have now imposed a ban on “French aircraft” from flying over Niger, prompting concerns about regional air safety. The ban restricts French aircraft and those chartered by France, including Air France, from entering Niger’s airspace. This move severely impacts air travel and raises questions about the potential consequences on economic activities and the movement of people and goods.
In response to these events, the European Union has suspended security cooperation with Niger, highlighting the international ramifications of the situation. The EU’s decision indicates a shared concern among its member states about the coup and its potential impact on regional stability and security.
The withdrawal of France’s troops and ambassador, along with the suspension of security cooperation from the EU, marks a critical turning point in the relationship between Niger and its international partners. The repercussions of this development extend beyond the political sphere, affecting economic ties, security efforts, and regional dynamics. It remains to be seen how this withdrawal will impact Niger’s internal affairs and the broader Sahel region, particularly in the context of combating terrorism and maintaining stability. As events unfold, close attention must be given to the potential consequences and the evolving situation in Niger.
