Nigerien military officials say they are prepared to go to war with France; France denies interference accusations

Niamé News: Chiani, Chairman of the National Defense of Niger, recently condemned French interference in Niger’s domestic affairs and declared that they will “enter a state of war with France.” The French military spokesperson later denied any intervention in Niger’s situation. According to media reports, Bashara made the remarks during a public rally in the capital, Niamé, on the 11th. He stated that France has long profited from Niger’s resources, and now that Niger has adjusted its policies towards France, it has touched on French interests, leading France to adopt an antagonistic stance toward Niger. Basharu mobilized the crowd present to “prepare for war with France.” He said, “We were not at war before, but now we will enter a state of war with France.” In response, Guillaume Vernel, spokesperson for the French General Staff, denied France’s intervention in Niger, calling it “obvious information warfare” by Niger. In July 2023, some members of Niger’s presidential guard detained President Bazoum, and the coup leaders announced the formation of the National Defense of Niger, removing Bazoum from office and taking control of the country’s affairs. Recently, relations between Niger and France have deteriorated. Niger has repeatedly accused France of interfering in its internal affairs and plundering resources, while France denies the accusations and condemns the Niger military coup. (Xinhua)