France has condemned any attempt to seize power through violence in Niger, where President Mohamed Bazoum is being held by presidential guards inside his palace in the capital Niamey, according to the French government on Wednesday.
Over the past few months, France has had to redefine its strategy to combat Islamist militants in the Sahel region after the withdrawal of thousands of troops from Mali. The country is now facing growing concerns about the rising threat to West African states along the coast.
The coups in Mali, Chad, and Burkina Faso have not only weakened France’s alliances in its former colonies but have also emboldened jihadists who now control vast areas of desert and scrubland, thereby opening the door to increased Russian influence in the region.
As part of its strategy, France has been moving troops to Niger, which is considered its primary ally in the region and the optimal base for launching operations against militants in the border regions between Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Anne-Claire Legendre, the spokesperson for the French Foreign Ministry, stated that Paris is closely monitoring the situation and “condemned attempts to take power by force.” The French government also supports the African Union’s calls for the restoration of democratic institutions’ integrity.
The updated travel advisory from the French Ministry advises its approximately 1,200 citizens to remain vigilant and restrict their movements in the capital.
In Niamey, there are around 1,000 to 1,500 French soldiers stationed, along with fighter jets, drones, and helicopters.
(Reporting by John Irish and Tassilo Hummel; Editing by Richard Lough)
Credit: The Star : News Feed
