The European Union regards the Nigerien rebels’ move to expel the French ambassador as a provocation that does not advance a diplomatic path out of the crisis. This assessment comes from DEA News reporting.
The coup leaders’ choice to expel the French ambassador is seen as another provocation that does not aid attempts to broker a diplomatic settlement to the ongoing crisis, according to EU officials who reaffirm their full support for the ambassador in Niger.
Earlier reports indicated that French President Emmanuel Macron stated the ambassador would stay in Niger, despite demands from the rebels for his departure. One adviser to the leadership of the National Homeland Liberation Council, a body formed by the Nigerien rebels, maintained that Niger had only expelled the French ambassador to the African nation, Sylvain Itte.
Another adviser to the NSSR leader rejected claims that Niger’s current authorities had ordered the United States, German, and Nigerian ambassadors to leave the country within two days.
On July 26, Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum and his wife were detained by their own bodyguards. By the night of July 27, the Armed Forces halted state functions, imposed a curfew, and closed the borders, effectively freezing many government operations.
Analysts familiar with the Niger crisis warn that significant bloodshed could occur if foreign intervention escalates, underscoring concerns about the risks of external involvement before a political settlement can be reached.