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'{{Short description|International crisis following the 2023 Nigerien coup d'état}}{{current|date=August 2023}} {{Use dmy dates|date=July 2023}} {{Infobox military conflict | conflict = 2023 Nigerien crisis | partof = [[2023 Nigerien coup d'état]] | date = {{Start and end dates|2023|07|29|present|df=y}}<br />({{Age in years, months, weeks and days|month1=07|day1=29|year1=2023}}) | place = [[Niger]] | image = 2023 ECOWAS Political Situation.png | result = Ongoing * Ultimatum expired on 6 August * No promised military intervention by ECOWAS after the ultimatum's expiration * Airspace closures across Niger * Niger mobilizes its armed forces * ECOWAS to hold emergency summit on 10 August * Evacuations of foreign nationals by their respective governments | combatant2 = {{Plainlist| *{{Flagicon|Niger}} Pro-[[Mohamed Bazoum|Bazoum]] factions }} * [[PNDS-Tarayya]] | combatant1 = {{Plainlist| * {{flagicon image|Flag_of_niger_armed_forces_obv.jpg}} Pro-[[Abdourahamane Tchiani|Tchiani]] factions }} * [[National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland|CNSP]] * [[M62 Movement]] | commander1 = <!--| units1 = [[File:Niger army logo.svg|20px]] [[Niger Armed Forces]]<br>[[National Guard of Niger|National Guard]]--> {{Plain list| * {{flagicon image|Flag_of_niger_armed_forces_obv.jpg}} [[Abdourahamane Tchiani]] }} | commander2 = {{Plain list| * {{Flagicon|Niger}} [[Mohamed Bazoum]] }} | strength1 = At least 57,000 Soldiers | strength2 = Unknown | casualties1 = | casualties2 = | caption = The political situation in ECOWAS following the coup in Niger: Red – Niger; Light Red – Supports Nigerien coup; Green – Opposes Nigerien coup | combatant1a = {{Plainlist| *{{flag|Burkina Faso}} *{{flag|Mali}} * [[File:PMC Wagner Center logo.png|20px]] [[Wagner Group|PMC Wagner]] }} {{Plainlist| '''Supported by:'''<br> *{{flag|Guinea}} }} | combatant2a = {{Plainlist| * [[ECOWAS]] }} * {{flag|Nigeria}} * {{flag|Benin}} * {{flag|Ivory Coast}} * {{flag|Senegal}} {{Plainlist| '''Supported by:''' *{{flag|France}} }} }} On 26 July 2023, a [[2023 Nigerien coup d'état|coup d'état]] occurred in [[Niger]], in which the country's presidential guard detained President [[Mohamed Bazoum]], and presidential guard commander General [[Abdourahamane Tchiani]] proclaimed himself the leader of a new military [[National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland|junta]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 July 2023 |title=Niger : ce que l'on sait de la tentative de coup d'Etat en cours contre le président Mohamed Bazoum |trans-title=Niger: what we know about the ongoing coup attempt against President Mohamed Bazoum |url=https://www.francetvinfo.fr/monde/afrique/niger/niger-ce-que-l-on-sait-de-la-tentative-de-coup-d-etat-en-cours-contre-le-president-mohamed-bazoum_5973206.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230726202029/https://www.francetvinfo.fr/monde/afrique/niger/niger-ce-que-l-on-sait-de-la-tentative-de-coup-d-etat-en-cours-contre-le-president-mohamed-bazoum_5973206.html |archive-date=26 July 2023 |access-date=26 July 2023 |website=Franceinfo |language=fr-FR}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=26 July 2023 |title=Niger soldiers declare coup on national TV |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66320895 |access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Niger's president 'held by guards' in apparent coup attempt |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/7/26/soldiers-holding-niger-president-inside-palace-security-sources |access-date=28 July 2023 |website=www.aljazeera.com |language=en}}</ref><ref name="ajtchiani" /> On 30 July 2023, the [[Economic Community of West African States]] (ECOWAS) gave Niger's coup leaders a one-week deadline to hand power back to Bazoum or face [[international sanctions]] and [[use of force]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Niger: How might an ECOWAS military intervention unfold? – DW – 08/03/2023 |url=https://www.dw.com/en/niger-how-might-an-ecowas-military-intervention-unfold/a-66431072 |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=dw.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |publisher=A. B. C. News |title=What would West African bloc's threat to use force to restore democracy in Niger look like? |url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/ecowas-threat-force-restore-democracy-niger-101903640 |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=ABC News |language=en}}</ref> ECOWAS has previously [[ECOWAS military intervention in the Gambia|intervened]] in The Gambia to restore democracy following the [[2016–2017 Gambian constitutional crisis|2016–2017 constitutional crisis]]. As of 8 August 2023, [[Nigeria]], [[Benin]], [[Senegal]] and [[Ivory Coast]] pledged to contribute military troops from its armed forces in an event of a ECOWAS-led military intervention against the junta,<ref>{{Cite web |last=AfricaNews |date=2023-08-05 |title=Benin pledges support for ECOWAS over Niger |url=https://www.africanews.com/2023/08/05/benin-pledges-support-for-ecowas-over-niger/ |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=Africanews |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ezenwa |first=Olumba E. |date=2023-08-03 |title=Niger coup: west African union has pledged to intervene – but some members support the plotters |url=http://theconversation.com/niger-coup-west-african-union-has-pledged-to-intervene-but-some-members-support-the-plotters-210990 |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=The Conversation |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-08-07 |title=Nigeria's President Tinubu faces backlash over military intervention in Niger |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66430113 |access-date=2023-08-08}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=AfricaNews |date=2023-08-03 |title=Senegal says its troops will join any ECOWAS intervention in Niger |url=https://www.africanews.com/2023/08/03/senegal-says-its-troops-will-join-any-ecowas-intervention-in-niger/ |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=Africanews |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Timeline: A history of ECOWAS military interventions in three decades |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/1/timeline-a-history-of-ecowas-military-interventions-in-three-decades |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=www.aljazeera.com |language=en}}</ref> while the military juntas of [[Burkina Faso]] and [[Mali]] threatened to join the military intervention on Niger's side if it were to ever be launched.<ref>{{Cite web |last=AfricaNews |date=2023-08-08 |title=Mali, Burkina Faso, sends delegation to Niger in solidarity |url=https://www.africanews.com/2023/08/08/mali-burkina-faso-sends-delegation-to-niger-in-solidarity/ |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=Africanews |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lawal |first=S. B. |title=Niger coup: Divisions as ECOWAS military threat fails to play out |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/6/niger-coup-divisions-as-ecowas-military-threat-fails-to-play-out |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=www.aljazeera.com |language=en}}</ref> == Background == {{Main|2023 Nigerien coup d'état}} On 26 July, the [[President of Niger|Nigerien presidency]] announced that presidential guards, led by General [[Abdourahamane Tchiani]], were engaged in an "anti-Republican demonstration". President Mohamed Bazoum and his family were detained at the [[Presidential Palace, Niamey|Presidential Palace]] in [[Niamey]], and Interior Minister [[Hamadou Souley]] was also arrested. The coup was led by Tchiani, whom Bazoum had planned to relieve from his position. Sources close to Bazoum said he had decided on Tchiani's dismissal at a cabinet meeting on 24 July 2023 as their relations had become strained.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Aksar |first1=Moussa |last2=Balima |first2=Boureima |date=2023-07-28 |title=Niger soldiers say President Bazoum's government has been removed |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/soldiers-nigers-presidential-guard-blockade-presidents-office-security-sources-2023-07-26/ |access-date=2023-08-04}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Madowo |first=Sarah Dean,Niamh Kennedy,Larry |date=2023-07-26 |title=Niger soldiers claim power after president's own guards reportedly seize him |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/26/africa/niger-presidency-attempted-coup-intl/index.html |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=CNN |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-07-27 |title=Niger's president vows democracy will prevail after mutinous soldiers detain him and declare a coup |url=https://apnews.com/article/niger-mutinous-soldiers-attempted-coup-2efab1649bea7d89b14dbc9432f5f819 |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=AP News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-07-29 |title=Niger army general declares himself country's new leader |url=https://gulfnews.com/world/africa/niger-army-general-declares-himself-countrys-new-leader-1.1690598862297 |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=gulfnews.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-07-27 |title=Au Niger, l'armée affirme avoir renversé Mohamed Bazoum – Jeune Afrique |url=https://www.jeuneafrique.com/1467524/politique/au-niger-larmee-affirme-avoir-renverse-mohamed-bazoum/ |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=JeuneAfrique.com |language=fr-FR}}</ref><ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=Niger's president 'held by guards' in apparent coup attempt |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/7/26/soldiers-holding-niger-president-inside-palace-security-sources |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=www.aljazeera.com |language=en}}</ref> The palace and adjacent ministries were blocked off by military vehicles, while civilian supporters of Bazoum who tried to approach the palace were dispersed by the Presidential Guard with gunfire, leaving one injured. Niger's armed forces surrounded the presidential palace in support of Bazoum.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":5" /> In the evening, [[Air Force of Niger|Air Force]] Colonel-Major [[Amadou Abdramane]] announced on state television that President Bazoum had been removed from power and announced the formation of a [[National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland]]. He stated that the defense and security forces had decided to topple the regime due to the deteriorating security situation and bad governance. He also announced the dissolution of the country's constitution, the suspension of state institutions, the closure of borders, and a nationwide curfew from 22:00 until 05:00 local time, while warning against any foreign intervention.<ref name=":4" /><ref>{{Cite news |last=Pilling |first=David |date=2023-07-27 |title=Niger soldiers go on television to announce coup in west African nation |work=Financial Times |url=https://www.ft.com/content/1b5c843d-a814-4811-9eb2-0a66880ac779 |access-date=2023-08-04}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-07-26 |title=Niger coup attempt: President Mohamed Bazoum held |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66312011 |access-date=2023-08-04}}</ref> Subsequently, all activities by [[List of political parties in Niger|political parties]] in the country were ordered suspended until further notice.<ref>{{cite web |date=27 July 2023 |title=Niger army pledges allegiance to coup makers |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/7/27/nigerien-army-pledges-allegiance-to-coup-plotters |access-date=27 July 2023 |website=[[Aljazeera]] |archive-date=27 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230727142352/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/7/27/nigerien-army-pledges-allegiance-to-coup-plotters |url-status=live}}</ref> He also announced that the junta had issued a reprimand to France for violating the airspace closure after a military plane landed at an air base.<ref name="bbc3">{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66324875 |title=Niger coup: Captive President Bazoum defiant after takeover |date=27 July 2023 |website=BBC |access-date=27 July 2023 |archive-date=27 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230727142355/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66324875 |url-status=live}}</ref> Despite his detention, Bazoum has so far refused to resign.<ref name="bbc2">{{cite web |last=Peter |first=Laurence |date=27 July 2023 |title=Niger soldiers announce coup on national TV |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66320895 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230727000929/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66320895 |archive-date=27 July 2023 |access-date=27 July 2023 |website=[[BBC]]}}</ref> His Foreign Minister [[Hassoumi Massaoudou]] told [[France 24]] that the country's "legal and legitimate power" remained with the president and reiterated that Bazoum was in good condition and that not the entire army was involved.<ref>{{cite web |date=27 July 2023 |title=Detained Niger president defiant after coup bid |url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20230726-presidency-sealed-off-in-coup-prone-niger |access-date=27 July 2023 |website=[[France 24]] |archive-date=26 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230726172357/https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20230726-presidency-sealed-off-in-coup-prone-niger |url-status=live}}</ref> Massaoudou also declared himself acting head of state and called on all democrats to "make this adventure fail".<ref name="bbc2" /> However, the leadership of the Nigerien armed forces declared its support for the coup to protect the president and avoid "a deadly confrontation."<ref>{{cite web |date=27 July 2023 |title=Niger's army command declares support for military coup |url=https://france24.com/en/africa/20230727-niger-s-army-command-declares-support-for-military-coup |access-date=27 July 2023 |website=[[France 24]] |archive-date=27 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230727142320/https://www.france24.com/en/africa/20230727-niger-s-army-command-declares-support-for-military-coup |url-status=live}}</ref> On 28 July, General Tchiani proclaimed himself as the president of the junta in a televised address. He said the coup was undertaken to avoid "the gradual and inevitable demise" of the country, and said that Bazoum had tried to hide "the harsh reality" of the country, which he called "a pile of dead, displaced, humiliation and frustration". He also criticized the government's security strategy for its purported ineffectiveness and lack of collaboration with Mali and Burkina Faso but did not give a timeline for a return to civilian rule. Colonel Abdramane accused officials of Bazoum's government of plotting against the junta while sheltering in foreign embassies and warned of bloodshed if they pushed through.<ref name="f24tchiani">{{cite web |date=28 July 2023 |title=Niger's General Abdourahamane Tchiani declared new leader following coup |url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20230728-niger-s-general-abdourahamane-tchiani-declared-new-leader-following-coup-state-tv |access-date=28 July 2023 |website=[[France 24]] |archive-date=27 July 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Niger coup: Abdourahmane Tchiani declares himself leader |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66337767 |date=28 July 2023 |publisher=BBC |access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref><ref name="ajtchiani">{{cite news |title=Niger general Tchiani named head of transitional government after coup |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/7/28/niger-general-tchiani-named-head-of-transitional-government-after-coup |date=28 July 2023 |publisher=Aljazeera|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> === ECOWAS === {{further|ECOWAS military intervention in the Gambia}}The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional, political and economic union of fifteen countries in West Africa, covering an area of 5,114,162 km2 (1,974,589 sq mi) and with an estimated population of over 387 million in 2019. Established in 1975, ECOWAS aims to achieve collective self-sufficiency for its member states by creating a single large trade bloc.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Yansane |first=Aguibou |date=1977 |title=The State of Economic Integration in North West Africa South of the Sahara: The Emergence of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/523653 |journal=African Studies Review |volume=20 |issue=2 |pages=63–87 |doi=10.2307/523653 |jstor=523653 |issn=0002-0206}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Limited |first=Daniel Inaju-Challydoff |title=Basic information {{!}} Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) |url=https://ecowas.int/basic-information/ |access-date=2023-08-04 |language=en}}</ref> ECOWAS also serves as a [[peacekeeping]] force in the region, with member states occasionally sending joint military forces to intervene in the bloc's member countries at times of political instability and unrest. In recent years these included interventions in [[First Ivorian Civil War|Ivory Coast in 2003]], [[Second Liberian Civil War|Liberia in 2003]], [[2012 Guinea-Bissau coup d'état|Guinea-Bissau in 2012]], [[Northern Mali conflict|Mali in 2013]], and [[ECOWAS military intervention in the Gambia|The Gambia in 2017]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-11-28 |title=The 5 previous West African military interventions |url=https://www.yahoo.com/news/5-previous-west-african-military-interventions-111050770.html |access-date=2023-08-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128212144/https://www.yahoo.com/news/5-previous-west-african-military-interventions-111050770.html |archive-date=28 November 2020 }}</ref> ===Security situation in Niger=== {{Further|War on terror|Islamist insurgency in the Sahel|Jihadist insurgency in Niger}} The United States, France, and many other countries and groups have been involved in [[Niger]] because of the [[Islamist insurgency in the Sahel]], which in turn triggered the [[Jihadist insurgency in Niger]] led by [[Al-Qaeda]], [[Islamic State]] and [[Boko Haram]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Violent Extremism in the Sahel |url=https://cfr.org/global-conflict-tracker/conflict/violent-extremism-sahel |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=Global Conflict Tracker |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-02-27 |title=Niger and Boko Haram: Beyond Counter-insurgency |url=https://www.crisisgroup.org/africa/west-africa/niger/245-niger-and-boko-haram-beyond-counter-insurgency |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=www.crisisgroup.org |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-04 |title=Niger junta revokes military pacts with France |url=https://www.politico.eu/article/niger-junta-amadou-abdramane-revokes-military-agreements-with-france/ |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=POLITICO |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=étrangères |first=Ministère de l'Europe et des Affaires |title=Terrorism: France's International Action |url=https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/french-foreign-policy/security-disarmament-and-non-proliferation/terrorism-france-s-international-action/ |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=France Diplomacy – Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs |language=en}}</ref> The USA, France, and [[Turkey]] have had bases in the country. In 2022 it became a hub of French anti-terror operations after its departure from [[Mali]] and [[Burkina Faso]] following a series of military coups<ref>{{Cite web |via=facebook.com/FRANCE24.English |date=2023-02-20 |title=French army officially ends operations in Burkina Faso |url=https://www.france24.com/en/africa/20230220-french-army-officially-ends-operations-in-burkina-faso |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=France 24 |language=en}}</ref> and [[anti-French sentiment]] which paved the way for Russian influence and the entry of its private mercenary firm [[Wagner Group]] in the region.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Anti-french Sentiment in West Africa – A Reflection of the Authoritarian Confrontation With the "Collective West" |url=https://www.institutmontaigne.org/en/expressions/anti-french-sentiment-west-africa-reflection-authoritarian-confrontation-collective-west |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=Institut Montaigne |language=en}}</ref> ==Timeline== === 29 July === The military junta accused [[Economic Community of West African States|ECOWAS]] in a statement read by Colonel Major [[Amadou Abdramane]] on Tele Sahel of planning to approve "a plan of aggression against Niger through an imminent military intervention in Niamey supported by certain Western countries" and warned of the junta's "strong determination" to defend the country. They claimed that this was the objective of the ECOWAS summit convened for the following day.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-07-29 |title=Sábado, 29 de julio de 2023 (22.00 GMT) NÍGER GOLPE La junta nigerina afirma que la Cedeao quiere aprobar una "intervención militar" en Níger |trans-title=Saturday, July 29, 2023 (2200 GMT) NIGER COUP The Niger junta claims that ECOWAS wants to approve a "military intervention" in Niger |url=https://www.lavanguardia.com/vida/20230729/9142073/sabado-29-julio-2023-22-00-gmt.html |access-date=2023-07-29 |website=La Vanguardia |language=es}}</ref><ref>{{Cite tweet |user=descifraguerra |author=Descifrando la Guerra |title=🇳🇪 ÚLTIMA HORA 🇳🇪 La CNSP, la junta militar de Níger, acaba de denunciar en la televisión nacional que la ECOWAS aprobará mañana "un plan de agresión contra Níger" mediante "una intervención militar apoyada por ciertos países occidentales" y declara que "defenderán su patria" |trans-title=LAST MINUTE 🇳🇪 The CNSP, Niger's military junta, has just denounced on national television that ECOWAS will approve tomorrow "a plan of aggression against Niger" through "a military intervention supported by certain Western countries" and declares that "they will defend their homeland" |number=1685398061286141953 |date=29 July 2023 |access-date=2023-07-31 |language=es}}</ref> The African Union Peace and Security Council issued an ultimatum that if the soldiers did not "immediately and unconditionally return to their barracks and restore constitutional democracy, within a maximum of fifteen days" that the bloc would be compelled to take "necessary action, including punitive measures against perpetrators".<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Pierre |last1=Meilhan |first2=Martin |last2=Goillandeau |first3=Joshua |last3=Berlinger |date=2023-07-29 |title=France and EU cut off financial support to Niger following military coup |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/29/africa/niger-coup-pressure-intl/ |access-date=2023-07-30 |website=CNN |language=en}}</ref> === 30 July === ==== ECOWAS ultimatum and sanctions ==== On 30 July, ECOWAS issued the Nigerien military junta with an ultimatum that Bazoum be reinstated as president within one week. In a communiqué read by ECOWAS Commission chairperson, Omar Touray, at the Extraordinary Summit convened in Abuja in response to the coup, they said that if their demands were not met they would "take all measures necessary to restore constitutional order in the Republic of Niger" and that "such measures may include the use of force".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Staff |first=Our Foreign |date=2023-07-30 |title=Thousands of pro-Russia protesters march through Niger capital in support of coup |language=en-GB |work=The Telegraph |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2023/07/30/niger-pro-russian-protesters-military-coup-mohamed-bazoum/ |access-date=2023-07-30 |issn=0307-1235}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last1=Balima |first1=Boureima |last2=Onuah |first2=Felix |date=2023-07-30 |title=West Africa bloc threatens force on Niger coup leaders, French Embassy attacked |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/pro-coup-protests-niger-west-african-leaders-meet-2023-07-30/ |access-date=2023-07-30}}</ref> The response from the bloc towards the junta drastically differed from the measures taken with recent coups in [[2021 Malian coup d'état|Mali]], [[September 2022 Burkina Faso coup d'état|Burkina Faso]], and [[2021 Guinean coup d'état|Guinea]] which did not involve the threat of force for reinstating the overthrown government.<ref>{{Cite news |date=30 July 2023 |title=French embassy in Niger is attacked as protesters waving Russian flags march through capital |work=The Columbian |url=https://www.columbian.com/news/2023/jul/30/french-embassy-in-niger-is-attacked-as-protesters-waving-russian-flags-march-through-capital/}}</ref> ECOWAS also announced "immediate sanctions" on Niger, including the closure of land and air borders, imposition of a [[no-fly zone]] on all commercial flights to and from Niger and the suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between ECOWAS and Niger.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Balima |first1=Boureima |last2=Onuah |first2=Felix |date=2023-07-31 |title=West Africa threatens force on Niger coup leaders, French embassy attacked |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/pro-coup-protests-niger-west-african-leaders-meet-2023-07-30/ |access-date=2023-08-01}}</ref> The assets of Niger state enterprises were frozen by the ECOWAS Central Bank, leading to the cancellation of a 30&nbsp;billion CFA francs ($51&nbsp;million) bond issuance.<ref>{{Cite news |author1= Coulibaly, Loucoumane|author2=Felix, Bate|editor1=Cawthorne, Andrew|editor2=Humphries, Conor |date=2023-07-31 |title=Niger's planned $51 million bond issuance cancelled due to sanctions |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/markets/rates-bonds/nigers-planned-51-mln-bond-issuance-cancelled-due-sanctions-2023-07-31/ |access-date=2023-08-01}}</ref> ==== Pro-coup demonstrations in Niamey ==== In a march at the request of Tchiani and organized by the [[M62 Movement]], which had previously opposed Bazoum's government and [[Operation Barkhane]] and supported the [[Russian invasion of Ukraine]], thousands of pro-coup Nigeriens gathered in Niamey's Place de la Concertation, in front of the [[National Assembly (Niger)|National Assembly]], and went to the French Embassy carrying Nigerien and Russian flags, with slogans such as "Down with France, out with Barkhane, we don't care about ECOWAS, the [[European Union]] and the [[African Union]]!", "Arrest the former dignitaries to return the stolen millions.", and "Down with France, long live [[Vladimir Putin|Putin]]!".<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Miles de personas participan en Niamey en una marcha en apoyo al golpe de Estado |trans-title=Thousands of people participate in a march in Niamey in support of the coup |url=https://www.infobae.com/america/agencias/2023/07/30/miles-de-personas-participan-en-niamey-en-una-marcha-en-apoyo-al-golpe-de-estado/ |access-date=2023-07-30 |website=infobae |language=es-ES}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2023-07-30 |title=Miles de nigerinos salen a las calles de Niamey para defender a los golpistas entre gritos a favor de Rusia |trans-title=Thousands of Nigeriens take to the streets of Niamey to defend the coup plotters amid chants for Russia |url=https://www.lanacion.com.ar/agencias/miles-de-nigerinos-salen-a-las-calles-de-niamey-para-defender-a-los-golpistas-entre-gritos-a-favor-nid30072023/ |access-date=2023-07-30 |website=LA NACION |language=es}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2023-07-30 |title=French embassy in Niger is attacked as protesters waving Russian flags march through capital |url=https://apnews.com/article/niger-coup-mohamed-bazoum-military-junta-sahel-88ccaa2f004db44601e59475199c5fbe |access-date=2023-07-30 |website=AP News|first=Sam|last=Mednick |language=en}}</ref> The demonstrators also called for an immediate intervention by the [[Wagner Group]].<ref name=":1" /> During the march, the entrances to the French and American embassies were closed.<ref name=":0" /> The French embassy's walls and gates were set ablaze and damaged whilst Nigerien soldiers and General [[Salifou Modi]] were seen on the ground urging the crowds to disperse peacefully.<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite web|author=((@Yvan Guichaoua)) |title=Salifou Modi en personne vient calmer les manifestants devant l'ambassade de France. chaud, froid, chaud|trans-title=Salifou Modi in person comes to calm the demonstrators in front of the French Embassy. hot, cold, hot|url=https://twitter.com/YGuichaoua/status/1685620800819171328 |access-date=2023-07-30 |via=Twitter |language=en}} (Tweet)</ref> The crowd left after police fired volleys of tear gas in response.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Balima |first1=Boureima |last2=Onuah |first2=Felix |date=2023-07-31 |title=West Africa threatens force on Niger coup leaders, French embassy attacked |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/pro-coup-protests-niger-west-african-leaders-meet-2023-07-30/ |access-date=2023-08-01}}</ref> Images showed people being loaded into ambulances with bloodied legs.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Balima |first1=Boureima |last2=Onuah |first2=Felix |date=2023-07-31 |title=West Africa threatens force on Niger coup leaders, French embassy attacked |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/pro-coup-protests-niger-west-african-leaders-meet-2023-07-30/ |access-date=2023-08-01}}</ref> In response to the attack on its embassy, the [[French Government]] warned that attacks on its nationals, military personnel, diplomats and interests would lead to an immediate and intractable response.<ref>{{Cite web |title=France warns will retaliate if its interests attacked in Niger |url=https://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/10/505706/World/Africa/France-warns-will-retaliate-if-its-interests-attac.aspx |access-date=2023-07-30 |website= |via=Ahram Online |agency=Agence France-Presse}}</ref> ===31 July=== On the behest of ECOWAS, Chad's President [[Mahamat Déby]] met with General Tchiani and President Bazoum at the presidential palace in Niamey. The Chadian Presidency released pictures of the meeting, marking Bazoum's first appearance since the coup.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-07-31 |title=Niger coup: Ousted President Mohamed Bazoum meets Chad's leader |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66358951 |access-date=2023-08-01}}</ref> Meanwhile, Colonel Abdremane accused Hassoumi Massaoudou, still claiming to be acting leader substituting for Bazoum, of authorizing a French attack on the presidential palace to liberate Bazoum.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-07-31 |title=Niger coup makers say ousted govt 'authorised French attack to free Bazoum' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/7/31/niger-coup-leaders-say-toppled-government-authorised-french-strikes |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=Aljazeera |language=en}}</ref> The French Foreign Ministry denied there were any such plans.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-07-31 |title=Niger coup leaders accuse France of plotting military intervention |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/31/niger-coup-leaders-accuse-france-plotting-military-intervention |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=The Guardian |language=en}}</ref> President Bazoum's Oil Minister Mahamane Sani Mahamadou (son of former President [[Mahamadou Issoufou]]), Mining Minister Ousseini Hadizatou and head of the [[Nigerien Party for Democracy and Socialism|PNDS]] national executive committee, [[Foumakoye Gado]] were arrested by the military junta. This followed the arrests of Transport Minister Oumarou Malam Alma and former defense minister Kalla Moutari the previous week.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Niger Republic Junta Arrests Top Politicians, Ministers As US, Germany, Others Impose Sanctions {{!}} Sahara Reporters |url=https://saharareporters.com/2023/08/01/niger-republic-junta-arrests-top-politicians-ministers-us-germany-others-impose |access-date=2023-08-01 |website=saharareporters.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last1=Balima |first1=Boureima |last2=Mazou |first2=Abdel-Kader |date=2023-08-01 |title=Niger arrests politicians after coup, other juntas voice support |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/niger-junta-says-government-authorised-french-strikes-2023-07-31/ |access-date=2023-08-01}}</ref> The [[Central Bank of West African States]] (BCEAO) cancelled a planned 30&nbsp;billion CFA franc ($51&nbsp;million) bond issuance by Niger in the West African regional debt market.<ref>{{Cite web |work=Aljazeera |title=West African central bank cancels Niger $51m bond issuance due to sanctions |date=27 July 2023 |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/7/31/nigers-planned-51-mln-bond-issuance-cancelled-due-to-sanctions |access-date=27 July 2023 |language=en-US}}</ref> === 1 August === The military junta announced that it had reopened Niger's borders with Algeria, Burkina Faso, Mali, Libya, and Chad.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-08-02 |title=Niger reopens borders with several neighbours a week after coup |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/niger-reopens-borders-with-several-neighbours-week-after-coup-2023-08-02/ |access-date=2023-08-02}}</ref> === 2 August === Rolling blackouts were reported across cities in Niger, which the state electricity company Nigelec blamed on Nigeria cutting off supplies. While the [[Transmission Company of Nigeria]] declined to comment, an anonymous source told the BBC that the move followed a directive from President [[Bola Tinubu]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-08-02 |title=Niger power blackouts blamed on coup sanctions |language=en |work=BBC|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66383119 |access-date=2023-08-02}}</ref> The World Bank suspended disbursements to Niger until further notice.<ref name=“defiant”>{{Cite web |work=Aljazeera |title=Niger coup leader defiant as Nigeria cuts power, ECOWAS threatens force |date=3 August 2023 |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/3/niger-coup-leader-defiant-as-nigeria-cuts-power-ecowas-threatens-force |access-date=3 August 2023 |language=en-US}}</ref> Military chiefs of ECOWAS member states met in [[Abuja]], [[Nigeria]] to discuss the situation in Niger.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sunday |first=Ochogwu |date=2023-08-02 |title=BREAKING: West African military chiefs meet in Abuja over Niger coup |url=https://dailypost.ng/2023/08/02/west-african-military-chiefs-meet-in-abuja-over-niger-coup/ |access-date=2023-08-02 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> At the same time, a confidential military signal was picked up by Inside Nigeria, giving orders to the Nigerian military to name units for a military operation against Niger, mobilize the armed forces and establish a no-fly zone.<ref>{{Cite web |last=afolabi |date=2023-08-02 |title=Coup: Tinubu orders Nigerian Army to ready troops for Niger Republic invasion |url=https://www.withinnigeria.com/news/2023/08/02/coup-tinubu-orders-nigerian-army-to-ready-troops-for-niger-republic-invasion/ |access-date=2023-08-02 |website=NEWS PICKS – WITHIN NIGERIA |language=en-GB}}</ref> Hours later, [[Ivory Coast]] issued a statement in which it supported the ECOWAS sanctions and announced the country's participation in a preparation for a military intervention in Niger.<ref>{{Cite tweet |author=Descifrando la Guerra |user=descifraguerra |title= El portavoz de la presidencia de Costa de Marfil ha emitido un comunicado condenando el golpe en Níger |number=1686883206543429632 |date=2 August 2023 |access-date=2023-08-03 |language=es}}</ref> A delegation of the Nigerien military junta headed by General Salifou Mody traveled to [[Bamako]], [[Mali]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-02 |title=Niger junta delegation arrives in Mali's Bamako |url=https://english.alarabiya.net/News/world/2023/08/02/Niger-junta-delegation-arrives-in-Mali-s-Bamako |access-date=2023-08-02 |website=Al-Arabiya |language=en}}</ref> and then to [[Ouagadougou]], Burkina Faso.<ref>{{Cite web |last=APA-Niamey (Niger) |date=2023-08-02 |title=Niger : un haut responsable du CNSP à Bamako |url=https://fr.apanews.net/now/niger-un-haut-responsable-du-cnsp-a-bamako/ |access-date=2023-08-02 |website=APAnews – Agence de Presse Africaine |language=fr-FR}}</ref> Speculation arose as to whether they went to ask for the support of the [[Wagner Group]], which has a presence in Mali.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-02 |title=A Niger coup leader meets with Wagner-allied junta in Mali |url=https://www.news8000.com/news/national-world/a-niger-coup-leader-meets-with-wagner-allied-junta-in-mali/article_988a6b98-fdf5-5cfc-bf84-0f367f7b85c9.html |access-date=2023-08-03 |website=News8000.com |language=en}}</ref> In a televised address, General Tchiani called the sanctions imposed on the country "cynical and iniquitous" and said they were intended to "humiliate" Niger's security forces and make the country "ungovernable". He insisted that his regime would not give in to such threats<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cooney |first=Christy |date=2023-08-03 |title=Niger: US announces partial evacuation of embassy |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66390918 |access-date=2023-08-03 |website= BBC |language=en}}</ref> and called on citizens to defend the country.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mednick |first=Sam |date=2023-08-02 |title=Niger: Niger's military ruler warns against foreign meddling, urges population to defend the country |url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/foreign-nationals-evacuate-niger-regional-tensions-rise-101942872 |access-date=2023-08-03 |website=ABC |language=en}}</ref> === 3 August === ECOWAS sent another delegation to Niger to negotiate with the junta, this time led by former Nigerian military leader [[Abdulsalami Abubakar]] and also including the [[Sultan of Sokoto]], [[Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar]], and [[Omar Touray]], president of the ECOWAS Commission.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Okafor |first=Chimaka |date=2023-08-02 |title=Niger Coup: ECOWAS name Abdulsalami, Sultan of Sokoto as envoys to Niger |language=en |work=Premium Times Nigeria |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/613835-niger-coup-ecowas-name-abdulsalami-sultan-of-sokoto-as-envoys-to-niger.html |access-date=2023-08-03}}</ref> [[Abdel-Fatau Musah]], ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security said that "The military option is the very last option on the table, the last resort, but we have to prepare for the eventuality."<ref>{{Cite news |last=Eboh |first=Camillus |date=2023-08-02 |title=West African bloc sends mission to Niger to negotiate with coup leaders |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/niger-reopens-borders-with-several-neighbours-week-after-coup-2023-08-02/ |access-date=2023-08-02}}</ref> However, the delegates failed to meet with General Tchiani and other junta members and left the same day.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-04 |title=Niger: ECOWAS team leaves without meeting coup leader |url=https://www.dw.com/en/niger-ecowas-team-leaves-without-meeting-coup-leader/a-66438305 |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=DW |language=en-US}}</ref> Another pro-coup demonstration was held in Niamey's Independence Square on the occasion of Niger's 63rd [[Independence Day (Niger)|Independence Day]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-02 |title=Pro-coup protests continue in Niger as Biden urges Bazoum release |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/3/pro-coup-protests-continue-in-niger-as-biden-urges-bazoum-release |access-date=2023-08-03 |website=Aljazeera |language=en}}</ref> This time, security forces blocked roads leading to the French and US embassies to prevent attacks and vandalism.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Thousands of pro-coup supporters gather in Niamey to demand withdrawal of French troops from Niger |url=https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/thousands-of-pro-coup-supporters-gather-in-niamey-to-demand-withdrawal-of-french-troops-from-niger/2960838 |access-date=2023-08-03 |website=www.aa.com.tr}}</ref> [[Senegal]]'s foreign minister, [[Aïssata Tall Sall]], and her counterpart in [[Benin]], [[Shegun Adjadi Bakari]], confirmed that their countries would participate in a military intervention in Niger if approved by ECOWAS.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adewole |first=Segun |date=2023-08-03 |title=Senegal Ready to Deploy Soldiers in Niger, Awaits ECOWAS |url=https://bnn.network/conflict-defence/senegal-ready-to-deploy-soldiers-in-niger-awaits-ecowas/ |access-date=2023-08-03 |website=BNN Breaking |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=El Ministro de Exteriores de Benin anuncia que su país también participará en la intervención militar de la CEDEAO contra Níger. Ya son cuatro los países de la región que han confirmado su disposición a intervenir militarmente contra la junta nigerina. |url=https://twitter.com/descifraguerra/status/1687104599428349954 |website=Twitter |language=en |access-date=2023-08-04}}</ref> The military junta censored the broadcast of [[France 24]] and [[Radio France Internationale]] (RFI) programs, as had happened months before in Mali and Burkina Faso. France 24 was followed weekly by a quarter of the Nigerien population and RFI was the most followed international station in the country. [[France Médias Monde]], the owner of both media networks, protested the decision.<ref>{{cite web |date=2023-08-03 |title=RFI et France 24 s'indignent de la suspension de leur diffusion au Niger |url=https://www.france24.com/fr/france/20230803-rfi-et-france-24-s-indignent-la-suspension-de-leur-diffusion-au-niger |website=France 24 |language=fr |access-date=2023-08-03}}</ref> The junta also announced Niger's withdrawal from its military agreements with France, notably those allowing French troops to be stationed in the country and regulating the status of military personnel fighting [[Jihadism|Islamist jihad]] on Nigerien soil.<ref>{{cite web |title=Coup d'État au Niger: les putschistes dénoncent des accords militaires conclus avec la France |url=https://www.bfmtv.com/international/afrique/coup-d-etat-au-niger-les-putschistes-denoncent-des-accords-militaires-conclus-avec-la-france_AD-202308030647.html |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=BFMTV |language=fr}}</ref> In a separate announcement, after peace talks failed, it ordered the withdrawal of Niger's ambassadors to France, Nigeria, [[Togo]] and the US.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Coup d'État: les putschistes retirent les ambassadeurs du Niger en France et dans trois autres pays |url=https://www.bfmtv.com/international/afrique/coup-d-etat-les-putschistes-retirent-les-ambassadeurs-du-niger-en-france-et-dans-trois-autres-pays_AD-202308030649.html |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=BFMTV |language=fr}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ugwu |first=Francis |date=2023-08-04 |title=Peace talk fails as Niger Republic cuts ties with Nigeria |url=https://dailypost.ng/2023/08/04/peace-talk-fails-as-niger-republic-cuts-ties-with-nigeria/ |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> In response, France said that it took note of the junta's actions, but proceeded to remind them that the deals were signed between "legitimate" authorities.<ref>{{cite web |title=France: Deals revoked by Niger military were signed with 'legitimate' gov't |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/4/france-deals-revoked-by-niger-military-were-signed-with-legitimate-govt |date=4 August 2023 |website=[[Aljazeera]]}}</ref> In an opinion piece published in ''[[The Washington Post]]'', Bazoum, calling himself a "hostage", called on the US and the international community to restore constitutional order in Niger, warning that the coup would have devastating domestic and international consequences.<ref>{{cite web |date=2023-08-04 |title=Former Niger president calls for international action to restore constitutional order |url=https://english.alarabiya.net/News/world/2023/08/04/Former-Niger-president-calls-for-international-action-t |website=al-Arabiya |language=en-US |access-date=2023-08-03}}</ref> ===4 August=== The junta lifted the curfew it imposed since 26 July.<ref>{{cite web |title=Niger junta lifts curfew in place since coup |url=https://english.ahram.org.eg/News/506019.aspx |date=4 August 2023 |website=[[Al-Ahram]]}}</ref> President Bola Tinubu requested the [[Senate of Nigeria]] to authorize an intervention in Niger. Images revealed that in recent days Nigerian troops had accumulated on the border with Niger.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tinubu Writes Senate, Seeks Support for Military Intervention in Niger |url=https://www.nigeriainfo.fm/news/homepage/tinubu-writes-senate-seeks-support-for-military-intervention-in-niger/ |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=Nigeria Info, Let's Talk! |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=El presidente de Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, ha pedido al senado nigeriano autorización para la participación del país en una intervención militar en Níger. En los últimos días han aparecido imágenes de soldados nigerianos dirigiéndose a la frontera con Níger. |url=https://twitter.com/descifraguerra/status/1687484384419467266 |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=Twitter |language=en}}</ref> A former adviser to President Bazoum told CNN that some 130 officials from the elected government had been arrested since the coup, while many others were in hiding.<ref>{{cite web |date=4 August 2023 |title=Niger's ousted president warns of 'devastating' coup impact, growing Russian influence |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/08/04/africa/niger-president-mohamed-bazoum-hostage-oped-intl-hnk/index.html |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=[[CNN]]}}</ref> The United States announced that it was suspending "certain foreign assistance programmes benefitting the government of Niger" but clarified that it would not include humanitarian and food assistance, as well as diplomatic and security operations to protect US personnel.<ref>{{cite web |title=US pauses some foreign aid to Niger as it reiterates support for Bazoum |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/5/us-pauses-foreign-assistance-to-niger-as-it-reiterates-support-for-bazoum |date=5 August 2023 |website=[[Aljazeera]]}}</ref> Burkina Faso raised the alert level of its [[Burkina Faso Armed Forces|armed forces]] to "state of war".<ref>{{Cite web |title=ReporteraNG {{!}} The people's Trusted Newsroom in Nigeria |url=https://reportera.ng/ |access-date=2023-08-06 |language=en-US}}</ref>{{better source|date=August 2023}} Jihadists belonging to [[Islamic State]] attacked a convoy of Malian soldiers heading for Niger, leading to 20 casualties.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-04 |title=Mali: soldiers killed in a jihadist ambush near Niger |url=https://www.africanews.com/2023/08/04/mali-soldiers-killed-in-a-jihadist-ambush-near-niger/ |access-date=2023-08-06 |website=Africanews |language=en}}</ref> ===5 August=== Reports emerged that the junta, through General [[Salifou Mody]], had formally asked for assistance from the [[Wagner Group]] during his visit to Mali.<ref>{{cite web |date=5 August 2023 |title=Niger's military rulers ask for help from Russian group Wagner |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/5/nigers-military-rulers-ask-for-help-from-russian-group-wagner |website=[[Al Jazeera]]}}</ref> On the same day, a source reported that Wagner Group instructors and security specialists have arrived in the capital of Niger, Niamey, from Mali.<ref>{{Cite web|author=@rusbrief |title=Brief: Несколько консультантов группы Вагнер прибыли сегодня утром из Мали в Нигер|trans-title=Several consultants from the Wagner group arrived this morning from Mali to Niger |url=https://t.me/rusbrief/142958 |access-date=2023-08-06 |website=Telegram}}</ref> After meeting with Bazoum's Prime Minister [[Ouhoumoudou Mahamadou]] in Paris, French Foreign Minister [[Catherine Colonna]] announced the country's support for an ECOWAS intervention in Niger, without specifying whether it would provide military support.<ref>{{cite web |title=France supports ECOWAS intervention in Niger, foreign minister says |url=https://www.france24.com/en/france/20230805-france-supports-ecowas-intervention-in-niger-foreign-minister-says |date=5 August 2023 |website=[[France 24]]}}</ref> The Nigerian Senate rejected President Tinubu's request to authorize military intervention in Niger and instead urged him to resolve the crisis by more diplomatic means.<ref>{{cite web |last=Umoru |first=Henry |date=5 August 2023 |title=Niger coup: Senate rejects military action, cautions ECOWAS, Tinubu |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/08/niger-coup-senate-rejects-military-action-cautions-ecowas-tinubu/ |website=[[Vanguard (Nigeria)|Vanguard]]}}</ref> However, the [[Constitution of Nigeria]] still permits the President to deploy troops abroad without Senate approval if the President believes the national security is under "imminent threat or danger".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Malplat |first1=Camille |last2=Abubakar |first2=Aminu |date=5 August 2023 |title=Opposition Mounts In Nigeria Over Possible Niger Intervention |work=[[Barron's]] |publication-place= |url=https://www.barrons.com/news/opposition-mounts-in-nigeria-over-possible-niger-intervention-f6b63c87 |access-date=}}</ref> [[Chad]] announced that it would not participate in an ECOWAS-led military intervention against the junta.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=5 August 2023 |title=Chad will not intervene in Niger coup, defense minister says |url=https://tvpworld.com/71785250/chad-will-not-intervene-in-niger-coup-defense-minister-says |access-date= |website=[[Telewizja Polska]] |language=en}}</ref> ===6 August=== The one-week deadline for the military junta to hand power back to Bazoum or face military intervention expired without ECOWAS carrying out its threat.<ref>{{cite web |last=Lawal |first=SB |title=Niger coup: Divisions as ECOWAS military threat fails to play out |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/6/niger-coup-divisions-as-ecowas-military-threat-fails-to-play-out |date=2023-08-06 |website=Aljazeera |language=en}}</ref> In Niamey, around 30,000 people joined a pro-junta demonstration at [[Stade Général Seyni Kountché]] that was also attended by junta member General Mohamed Toumba.<ref>{{cite web |title=Thousands in Niger rally in support of coup leaders |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/6/thousands-in-niger-rally-in-support-of-coup-leaders |date=2023-08-06 |website=Aljazeera |language=en}}</ref> Algerian president [[Abdelmadjid Tebboune]] expressed his opposition to any military intervention, stating that such actions could "ignite the whole [[Sahel]] region".<ref>{{cite news |date=2023-08-05|author=Abd-Alaziz, Moaz|editor=Gregorio, David |title=Algeria opposes military intervention in Niger, Ennahar TV reports |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/algeria-opposes-military-intervention-niger-tv-citing-president-2023-08-05/ |access-date=2023-08-06}}</ref> The junta gave France 30 days to vacate Niger, in accordance with the 1977 Agreement of Technical Military Cooperation.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ogochukwu |first1=Isioma |title=Niger Coup Leaders give France 30 Days to Vacate the Country |url=https://metrowatchonline.com/breaking-niger-coup-leaders-give-france-30-days-to-vacate-the-country-metrowatch/ |work=Metro Watch |date=6 August 2023}}</ref> The junta closed the country's airspace again, citing the threat of military intervention, with spokesman Colonel Abdremane claiming that there had been a pre-deployment of forces in two Central African countries, whom he did not identify.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Niger closes airspace as ECOWAS deadline for coup reversal expires |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/7/niger-closes-airspace-as-ecowas-deadline-for-coup-reversal-expires |date=2023-08-06 |website=Aljazeera |language=en}}</ref> The Nigerien military began bringing in reinforcements to Niamey in anticipation of a potential military intervention, with a convoy of about 40 pick-up trucks arriving at nightfall.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Saley |first=Omar |last2=Goillandeau |first2=Martin |last3=Berlinger |first3=Joshua |title=Niger military deploys reinforcements to capital after ignoring deadline to cede power |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/08/07/africa/niger-coup-deadline-intl/index.html |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=CNN |language=en}}</ref> ===7 August=== Italian foreign minister [[Antonio Tajani]] called on ECOWAS to extend the ultimatum's deadline.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-08-07 |title=Italy calls on West African states (ECOWAS) to extend Niger ultimatum |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/italy-calls-west-african-states-ecowas-extend-niger-ultimatum-2023-08-07/ |access-date=2023-08-08}}</ref> Mali and Burkina Faso announced plans to send delegations to Niger to "express solidarity" with the junta.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66424858 |author1=Armstrong, Kathryn|author2=Orjinmo, Nduke|title=Niger coup: Junta shuts airspace citing military intervention threat |date=2023-08-07 |publisher=BBC}}</ref> [[Simon Ekpa]], head of a self-proclaimed [[Biafra]]n government-in-exile, said it would support Niger and its allies in the event of an ECOWAS intervention.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sunday |first=Ochogwu |date=2023-08-07 |title=Coup: Biafra will back you if Nigerian military intervenes - Simon Ekpa assures Niger, Mali |url=https://dailypost.ng/2023/08/07/coup-biafra-will-back-you-if-nigerian-military-intervenes-simon-ekpa-assures-niger-mali/ |access-date=2023-08-07 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> ECOWAS announced plans to hold a summit on 10 August to discuss their next steps in the situation in Niger.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mazou |first=Abdel-Kader |last2=Balima |first2=Boureima |date=2023-08-07 |title=West African leaders to meet on Niger after junta defies deadline |language=en |agency=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/niger-waits-west-african-blocs-response-after-junta-rejects-ultimatum-2023-08-07/ |access-date=2023-08-08}}</ref> Acting US Deputy Secretary of State [[Victoria Nuland]] met with junta member and military chief of staff General [[Moussa Salaou Barmou]] in Niamey for two hours to offer US help to restore the constitutional government, but indicated that the junta did not accept the idea, adding that the conversations were "extremely frank and at times quite difficult". The junta also did not allow her to meet with President Bazoum and described him as under “virtual house arrest”.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Armstrong |first=Kathryn |last2=Orjinmo |first2=Nduka |date=2023-08-08 |title=Niger coup: US envoy holds 'difficult' talks with junta |language=en |agency=BBC |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66424858 |access-date=2023-08-08}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last1= Mednick|first1=Sam|last2=Knickmeyer|first2=Ellen|date=2023-08-07 |title=Niger coup leaders refuse to let senior US diplomat meet with nation's president |url=https://apnews.com/article/niger-coup-extremism-west-africa-ecowas-6cc3fa0b61adc6d9bcb2fb9745c4dcdf |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=AP News |language=en}}</ref> === 8 August === The junta appointed economist, [[Ali Lamine Zeine]] as the new prime minister. Zeine had served as finance minister until 2010, and later worked at the [[African Development Bank]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-08 |title=Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine: Putschisten in Niger benennen Ministerpräsidenten - WELT |url=https://www.welt.de/politik/ausland/article246794256/Ali-Mahaman-Lamine-Zeine-Putschisten-in-Niger-benennen-Ministerpraesidenten.html |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=DIE WELT |language=de |agency=[[Agence France-Presse]]}}</ref> A joint delegation composed of officials from ECOWAS, the [[United Nations]], and the [[African Union]] were denied entry into Niger by the military junta due to several reasons such as popular outrage over the ECOWAS' sanctions.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-08 |title=[Exclusif] Au Niger, la junte refuse de recevoir la mission de la Cedeao – Jeune Afrique |url=https://www.jeuneafrique.com/1471543/politique/exclusif-au-niger-la-junte-refuse-de-recevoir-les-missions-de-mediation/ |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=JeuneAfrique.com |language=fr-FR}}</ref> US secretary of state Antony Blinken said Washington supported West African efforts to restore constitutional order in Niger. “We are supporting the efforts of Ecowas in Africa to restore constitutional order in Niger minister.” Please use the sharing tools found via the share button at the top or side of articles. In a separate interview with the BBC, Blinken said that while the Niger coup “was not instigated by Russia or by Wagner . . . they tried to take advantage of it… Every single place that Wagner group has gone, death, destruction and exploitation have followed.”<ref>{{Cite news |last=Adeoye |first=Aanu |last2=Schwartz |first2=Felicia |date=2023-08-08 |title=Blinken backs West African efforts to restore Niger’s constitutional order |work=Financial Times |url=https://www.ft.com/content/0a8fee1b-4848-4bc1-b64b-28cac6592798 |access-date=2023-08-08}}</ref> == Evacuation of foreign nationals == On 1 August, the French foreign ministry announced that it was preparing to evacuate its citizens and that of other European nationals starting that day, citing the unrest in Niamey, the attack on its embassy, and the closure of Niger's airspace.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Rose |first1=Michel |last2=Kar-Gupta |first2=Sudip |date=2023-08-01 |title=France will start evacuation of French, EU citizens from Niger on Tuesday |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/france-start-evacuation-operations-niger-soon-report-french-media-2023-08-01/ |access-date=2023-08-01}}</ref> The Spanish Defence Ministry said it would evacuate more than 70 Spaniards in Niger by air.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Latona |first1=David |last2=Carreño |first2=Belén |date=2023-08-01 |title=Spain to evacuate more than 70 citizens from Niger |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/spain-evacuate-more-than-70-citizens-niger-2023-08-01/ |access-date=2023-08-01}}</ref> On 2 August, the first evacuation flights were carried out. An Italian military plane carried 87 evacuees from Niger and landed in Rome,<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Denti |first1=Antonio |last2=Casilli |first2=Remo |date=2023-08-02 |title=Italian plane with 87 evacuees from Niger arrives in Rome |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/italian-plane-with-87-evacuees-niger-arrives-rome-2023-08-02/ |access-date=2023-08-02}}</ref> while 262 evacuees arrived on a French evacuation flight in Paris.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Ewokor |first1=Chris |last2=Mackintosh |first2=Thomas |date=2023-08-02 |title=Niger coup: Evacuated European nationals arrive in Paris and Rome |language=en |work=BBC |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66370002 |access-date=2023-08-02}}</ref> In total, 1,079 people were evacuated by France.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-08-03 |title=France completes Niger evacuations, asks junta to 'fully guarantee' embassy safety|language=en |work=Le Monde |url=https://www.lemonde.fr/en/le-monde-africa/article/2023/08/03/france-asks-niger-to-fully-guarantee-embassy-safety_6078296_124.html |access-date=2023-08-05}}</ref> The [[US State Department]] ordered the evacuation of non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members from its Embassy, which would remain open for "limited, emergency services to U.S. citizens."<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Winsor |first1=Morgan |last2=Crawford |first2=Sharon |last3= El Hammar-Castano |first3=Aicha |last4=Ogao |first4= Emma |date=2023-08-03 |title=US orders partial departure of US embassy in Niger as political unrest escalates |language=en |work=ABC|url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/us-narrow-opportunity-restore-democratic-order-niger-coup/story?id=101891282 |access-date=2023-08-03}}</ref> The United Kingdom also ordered a reduction of staff at its embassy.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-08-03 |title=Niger coup: UK reduces number of staff at embassy in face of unrest after military takeover |language=en |work=Sky News|url=https://news.sky.com/story/niger-coup-uk-reduces-number-of-staff-at-embassy-after-military-takeover-12932788 |access-date=2023-08-03}}</ref> In response to the evacuations, the M62 movement called for a peaceful blockade of [[Niamey Airport]] until foreign military forces left the country.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Beaumont |first=Peter |date=2023-08-02 |title=African bloc to meet to discuss Niger coup as evacuations continue |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/aug/02/african-bloc-to-meet-to-discuss-niger-coup-as-evacuations-continue |access-date=2023-08-02 |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> == See also== * [[2020 Malian coup d'état]] * [[2021 Guinean coup d'état]] * [[2021 Malian coup d'état]] * [[January 2022 Burkina Faso coup d'état]] * [[September 2022 Burkina Faso coup d'état]] ==References== {{reflist}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Nigerien crisis, 2023}} [[Category:2023 in Niger|Crisis]] [[Category:Conflicts in 2023]] [[Category:July 2023 events in Africa]] [[Category:August 2023 events in Africa]] [[Category:Economic Community of West African States]]'