Situation in Niger After Military Coup
On July 26, Niger's presidential guard detained President Mohamed Bazoum. The guard's commander, Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, proclaimed himself the country's new leader.

EU Views as 'Provocation' Rebels' Decision to Expel French Ambassador From Niger, EEAS Says

In the wake of anti-French sentiment in Niger following the military coup at the end of July, the Foreign Ministry of Niger on Friday decided on Friday to deprive French ambassador Itte of agreement and ask him to leave the country within 48 hours.
Sputnik
The European Union (EU) considers the Nigerien coup leaders' decision to order French Ambassador Sylvain Itte out of the country a "provocation" that does not contribute to a diplomatic settlement of the crisis in Niger, the European External Action Service (EEAS) said.
"The putchists' decision to order France's ambassador out of the country is a new provocation that will not contribute to finding a diplomatic settlement of the current crisis. The European Union expresses its full support for France's ambassador," the EEAS said in a statement.
The EU will never recognize the rebels' government in Niger, the statement also read.
Situation in Niger After Military Coup
Niger Shuts Down Water, Power at French Embassy as Ultimatum to Envoy Expires: Reports
Earlier, on Friday, Paris said that it had taken note of Niger's request to the ambassador to leave the country, but believes that the rebels have no authority to make such decisions. French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that Itte would remain in Niger despite the rebels' demands.
On July 26, Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted and detained by his own guard, led by Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani. France condemned the coup, supporting "the legitimate government" of its former colony.
The rebels, on their part, halted gold and uranium exports to France, blocked French media and denounced several military pacts with Paris. In addition, they demanded in mid-August that the French forces leave the country by early September.
Mass rallies demanding the complete withdrawal of French troops from Niger have been taking place in the country ever since the coup.