France Initiates Evacuation of Citizens from Niger as Tensions Escalate after Coup

France Initiates Evacuation of Citizens from Niger

France has commenced the evacuation of hundreds of French and European citizens from Niger as the region grapples with escalating tensions following a military coup that ousted Niger's democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum and his government.

Shockwaves in the Sahel Region

The military takeover in Niger, the seventh in West and Central Africa in less than three years, has sent shockwaves throughout the Sahel region. Niger had been considered a stable ally in the fight against the growing Islamist insurgency, making the coup a significant concern for regional stability.

Neighbors' Response and Escalating Conflict

Neighboring countries, Mali and Burkina Faso, both ruled by military juntas, have issued warnings against any external intervention to restore the ousted government in Niger, declaring it a declaration of war. The situation has raised concerns within the West African regional bloc, ECOWAS, which has struggled to persuade military rulers in member states to restore democratic governance.

International Efforts to Evacuate Citizens

With the risk of conflict escalating, Spain and Italy have made preparations for evacuating their citizens from Niger by air. Germany has urged its citizens to join the French evacuation efforts, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

French Leadership in Evacuation

France has taken the lead in evacuating its citizens and other EU nationals from Niger. French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna emphasized the importance of ensuring the safe departure of those wishing to leave the country without implying recognition or endorsement of the junta in control.

Evacuation Process Underway

Flightradar data indicates that a plane registered to the French armed forces has landed in the capital city of Niamey and is scheduled to depart with the evacuees. However, there has been no announcement regarding the evacuation of military personnel from France, the United States, Germany, and Italy, who have stationed troops in Niger for counter-insurgency and training missions.

Concerns and Calls for Constitutional Order

As the situation in Niger evolves, the international community closely monitors developments. The Kremlin has expressed concerns and called for a swift return to constitutional order. Notably, Niger is a significant global producer of uranium, and the European Commission has assured that EU utilities have adequate uranium inventories to mitigate potential supply risks.

Orano's Operations Unaffected

French nuclear fuels company Orano, with operations in Niger, has stated that its activities will not be affected by the evacuations, as the majority of its staff in the country are Nigerien nationals.

Navigating the Crisis in the Sahel Region

The international community faces the challenge of finding a peaceful resolution and restoring democratic governance in Niger. The evacuation of citizens and the deployment of troops by various nations underscore the complexity and gravity of the ongoing crisis in the Sahel region.

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