French President Emmanuel Macron has announced the withdrawal of the French ambassador and troops from Niger in response to the coup that overthrew Niger President Mohamed Bazoum. Macron said military cooperation with Niger was "over," and the 1,500 French troops stationed in the country would be withdrawn in the coming months and weeks, with a full pullout "by the end of the year." This decision follows months of tension and protests against the French presence in Niger, with widespread demonstrations in the capital, Niamey. Niger's new military rulers welcomed the French president's announcement, calling it a "new step towards the sovereignty of Niger." The coup in Niger was the latest in a series of military takeovers in West African countries, following similar actions in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Chad. Anti-French sentiments have grown in the region, with some local politicians accusing France of pursuing neocolonialist policies. Russia's Wagner mercenary group has also expanded its role in the Sahel, further complicating the situation.

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