In a move signifying the culmination of a months-long decline in relations, France has indefinitely shut down its embassy in Niger, the French foreign ministry announced on Tuesday.
This decision comes barely two weeks after the final withdrawal of French troops, who previously played a key role in combating insurgents in the West African nation.
The embassy closure marks a symbolic final chapter in France’s gradual disengagement from its former colony, a process set in motion by a military coup that overthrew Niger’s democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum in July.
Since then, the new military junta has taken steps to distance itself from France, expelling the French ambassador and scrapping existing defense agreements.
“Our embassy in Niger has faced significant obstacles hindering its operations for the past five months,” the French foreign ministry stated, citing a blockade imposed around the diplomatic mission as a particular challenge.
With most staff, including the expelled ambassador, having already departed Niger, the embassy’s closure formalizes what had become a de facto reality.
The July coup and its aftermath have significantly complicated the security landscape in the region.
Bazoum remains under house arrest in Niamey, while France’s withdrawal leaves a void in the fight against jihadist groups operating across the Sahel. However, other Western nations maintain a presence in Niger.
The United States, for instance, has expressed willingness to resume cooperation with the military regime under the condition of a swift transition back to civilian rule.
While US troop numbers have been scaled back from 1,500 to approximately 1,000, they remain actively engaged in intelligence-gathering and counterterrorism efforts.
European partners like Germany and Italy also retain a military presence in Niger, highlighting the international community’s desire to prevent Russia from exploiting the opportunity created by France’s pullout.
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the fragile security situation in Niger stabilizes or deteriorates further, with the actions of the military junta and the international community’s response holding significant weight.
