The United States has ordered some embassy personnel to evacuate, and the leaders of the Niger coup have refused any concessions. Niger | Embassy | United States
On August 2nd local time, the United States announced the withdrawal of some embassy staff in Niger, and the leader of the Niger military coup stated on the same day that they refused to make any concessions in transferring power. Foreign media articles point out that this may lead to further escalation of the situation in Niger and exacerbate the risk of armed conflict.
According to The Guardian on August 3rd, the US State Department announced on August 2nd that after a coup by the Niger Presidential Guard, the US has ordered the evacuation of some staff and family members of the US Embassy in Niger. However, the embassy will continue to be open, and the senior leadership will also remain in their positions.
In a statement, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "Due to the ongoing development of the situation in Niger and due to cautious considerations, the State Department has ordered non emergency US government personnel and eligible family members of the US Embassy in Niamey to temporarily leave." Regarding the embassy's follow-up arrangements in Niger, Miller stated that the embassy will still be open to US citizens to provide limited emergency services.
At the same time as the United States announced this news, the leaders of the Niger coup stated that despite pressure from neighboring countries, the military government will not allow the ousted former democratically elected President Bazum to return to office.
The Economic Community of West African States has imposed sanctions on Niger, and the West African Community has stated that if the leader of the Niger coup does not restore Bazum's presidency within a week from July 30th, the West African Community may authorize the use of force against Niger. On August 3rd, the EU sent a delegation to Niger and attempted to negotiate with the coup leaders.
Abdul Fatu Moussa, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security of the Western Community, said, "Military intervention is the last choice and also the last resort, but we must be prepared for possible situations."
Niger's coup leader Tiani said in a televised speech that the military government "completely rejects these sanctions and refuses to submit to any threats, regardless of where they come from.". He also expressed his rejection of any interference in Niger's internal affairs.