The French government issued a stern warning on Sunday, stating that any attack on French nationals or interests in Niger will trigger a robust and immediate response from France.
This statement came amidst pro-junta demonstrations outside the French Embassy in Niamey following the military coup that occurred last week.
In a statement, Macron’s office emphasized that the President would not tolerate any assault on France and its interests. The statement explicitly mentioned that any attacks targeting French diplomats, armed forces, or businesses would be met with a response.
According to the statement, Macron recently held conversations with ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and former President of Niger Mahamadou Issoufou. Both of them condemned the coup and urged for calm in the situation.
On Saturday, France declared the cessation of all development aid to Niger and urged for the return of President Bazoum.
Niger has been a crucial security partner of France, as well as the United States, utilizing it as a base to combat militants in the wider Sahel region of West and Central Africa.