The ongoing political instability in Niger presents a threat to U.S. counterterrorism operations as the ultimate outcome of a coup attempt could dictate the future of Washington's involvement in the region.
Demonstrators, rebels and loyalist militants clash while people celebrate the ousting of the country's president as some protesters looted the ruling party's headquarters.
Col. Maj. Amadou Abdramane, a spokesperson for the country’s security forces, said in a televised statement that the country’s constitution was suspended and Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani was in charge, The Associated Press reported. "We specifically urge elements of the presidential guard to release President Bazoum from detention and refrain from violence," Sullivan said in a statement. Sullivan noted that the White House has monitored the situation and will continue looking to keep U.S. citizens safe.
Niger has also already attracted interest from Russia’s infamous mercenary group Wagner, which has targeted the country due to its rich uranium production. Bazoum won Niger’s first democratic election, held in 2020 to 2021, but Tchiani argued that the country needed a new direction after potentially witnessing its"gradual and inevitable demise."
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