Balanced News: Niger: ‘French forces will redeploy only at Bazoum’s requests’, President Macron

Niger’s military regime has accused France of planning a military intervention in the country and deploying forces in several West African countries. Relations between Niger and France deteriorated after Paris stood by ousted President Mohamed Bazoum following a coup in July. Niger is also facing a stand-off with the West African bloc ECOWAS, which has threatened to intervene if diplomatic pressure fails. French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated France’s stance, demanding the release of President Bazoum and stating that the redeployment of troops would only occur upon request from the deposed head of state. The French army is in talks with the military regime over withdrawing elements of its presence in Niger.