US and UK Embassies Evacuate Amidst Niger's Military Coup, Highlighting Regional Instability and Rising Concerns
US and UK evacuate embassy staff from Niger after military coup, raising concerns about security and potential instability. French embassy also requests safety assurance. ECOWAS imposes sanctions and negotiates with coup leaders. Calls for restoration of democratically elected government.
In response to the recent military coup in Niger, both the United States and the United Kingdom have ordered the evacuation of their embassy staff from the country. The coup, which occurred last week, has raised concerns about the security situation in Niger and the potential for increased instability in the region.
The US State Department has stated that it is temporarily removing non-emergency personnel and eligible family members from its embassy in Niamey, but the mission will remain open for limited, emergency services. Additionally, the UK Foreign Office has also announced a temporary reduction in its number of embassy staff due to the security situation.
France, Niger's former colonial ruler, has also requested the junta to ensure the safety of its embassy and diplomatic personnel in Niamey following violent protests outside its embassy. The military leaders have accused France of trying to intervene militarily in the country.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has imposed sanctions on Niger and has sent a delegation to negotiate with the coup leaders. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and urging for the restoration of the democratically elected government in Niger.