Nigerien security forces launch tear gas to disperse pro-junta demonstrators gathered outside the French embassy, in Niamey, the capital city of Niger, on 30 July 2023.;
Credit: REUTERS/Souleymane Ag Anara
(Reuters) - The Niger military junta that seized power last week said on Monday that the toppled government had authorised France to carry out strikes to try to free President Mohamed Bazoum.
The comments were made by army Colonel Amadou Abdramane, one of the coup plotters, on state television.
Meanwhile, Britain said on Sunday 30 July 2023 that it condemns attempts to undermine democracy, peace and stability in Niger and said the country stands by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in their efforts to restore stability Niger, according to a statement from the UK government.
"The UK is a committed partner of Niger's democratically elected government and calls for President Bazoum to be immediately reinstated to restore constitutional order," the statement added.
