The US and France Announce Their Intent for a Diplomatic Solution Regarding Niger

The head of the Pentagon, Lloyd Austin, and the French Minister of Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu, have expressed their desire for a diplomatic resolution in Niger. This was stated in a declaration by Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder.

The document emphasizes that the leaders of the military departments 'share the desire for a diplomatic resolution of the situation in Niger.' During a phone conversation, the ministers noted the need to continue engagement with 'Nigerians and regional African partners.'

At the same time, Austin and Lecornu reaffirmed their 'commitment to further cooperation,' which is based on long-term ties between the countries in the areas of defense and security.

On September 1, Niger temporarily banned the activities of international organizations. The Nigerien Ministry of Internal Affairs highlighted in its statement that this was done for security reasons due to the current situation.