Niger’s junta has made accusations against France, their former colonial ruler, alleging that France has intentions of intervening militarily to reinstate ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.
In a statement broadcast on national TV, the junta accused France of planning a strike on them with the assistance of some officials from the deposed government.
Last week, soldiers in Niger announced a coup on national TV, declaring the dissolution of the constitution, suspension of all institutions, and the closure of all borders.
The coup received widespread condemnation, including from France, the UN, and the West African regional body Ecowas.
President Mohamed Bazoum has been detained by the junta inside his presidential palace in Niamey, and the junta has previously warned against any foreign attempts to extract him.
Chad’s transitional President, Mahamat Idriss Deby, held talks with the Niger junta leader and Mr. Bazoum on Sunday in an effort to help resolve the political crisis in Niger.