![]() ![]() Niger is seen as the last reliable partner for the West in efforts to battle jihadists linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group in Africa's Sahel region, where Russia and Western countries have vied for influence in the fight against extremism. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Bazoum Friday, according to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.Ī western military official in Niger who was not authorized to speak to the media also said the military factions were believed to be negotiating, but that the situation remained tense and violence could erupt. Coup supporters take to the streets after the Niger army seized power in Niamey, Niger, on July 27, 2023.īalima Boureima/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images Various factions of Niger's military have reportedly wrangled for control since members of the presidential guard detained President Mohamed Bazoum, who was elected two years ago in Niger's first peaceful, democratic transfer of power since independence from France. Amadou Abdramane said on state television that the constitution was suspended and Gen. Mutinous soldiers who staged a coup in Niger declared their leader the new head of state on Friday, hours after the general asked for national and international support despite rising concerns that the political crisis could hinder the nation's fight against jihadists and boost Russia's influence in West Africa. Soldiers in Niger announce coup as guards take president hostage 04:36 ![]()
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