After the generals took charge, the United States was forced to suspend operations at its most strategic military asset in sub-Saharan Africa. Restarting them won’t be easy.
Border closures and a freeze on financial transactions imposed after soldiers seized power are hurting millions, while Western nations remain divided over what to do.
Music videos praising the military have proliferated since generals seized power, highlighting the army’s longstanding importance in Niger and popular dissatisfaction with civilian rule.
In an interview with The New York Times, a civilian leader of the junta sounded a conciliatory tone. He also said Niger would not summon the Kremlin-backed Wager Group.
President Mohamed Bazoum had grown alarmed at military takeovers sweeping across Niger’s neighbors. Then his own soldiers came for him. Weeks later, he remains imprisoned in his home.