Paris warns against attacks on French interests in Niger
(AP Photo/Sam Mednick)Nigeriens, some holding Russian flags, participate in a march called by supporters of coup leader Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani in Niamey, Niger.
The Economic Community of West African States is meeting later in the day over the situation in Niamey, with a range of sanctions in its arsenal
France released a warning Sunday over protests outside its embassy in Niamey, following a coup in Niger. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) was also scheduled to meet later in the day over the situation.
"Should anyone attack French nationals, the army, diplomats and French interests, they will see France respond in an immediate and intractable manner," the French president's office said in a statement, adding “any attack against France and its interests" will not be tolerated.
France also supports all regional initiatives" aimed at "restoring constitutional order" and the return of Niger President Mohamed Bazoum, the French statement continued.
(AP Photo/Sam Mednick)Nigeriens holding a Russian flag and placards participate in a march called by supporters of coup leader Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani in Niamey, Niger
Niger's elected president was
detained by the presidential guard since Wednesday and its chief, General Abdourahamane Tiani, declared himself the new head of state. The military man said it was a response to "the degradation of the security situation.”
Thousands of
pro-junta protesters gathered Sunday outside the French embassy in Niamey and some tried to enter the building, according to
AFP. The demonstrators also shouted "long live Russia", "long live Putin" and "down with France".
