The State Department has ordered the evacuation of its non-essential personnel at the Embassy in Niamey (capital of Niger) following the military coup d'état carried out in that country against President Mohamed Bazoum:
The Department ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and eligible family members from Embassy Niamey.
According to a statement, the Embassy has suspended its "routine services" and noted that due to the reduction of active personnel it is currently at "limited ability".Thus, it "is only able to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Niger."
The U.S. Embassy in Niamey has temporarily reduced its personnel, suspended routine services, and is only able to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Niger. The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Niger due to the temporary reduction in embassy staff.
Niger_ Travel Advisory Rais... by Verónica Silveri
Travel warning upgraded to level 4: no travel
The Department raised its travel warning to level 4, advising Americans "do not travel" to that country because "there may be increased demonstrations that can lead to civil unrest and government instability".
With the ongoing efforts to overturn constitutional order. Violent crime, such as armed robbery, is common. Terrorist groups continue plotting kidnappings and possible attacks in Niger.
State Department spokesman Matthew Miller denied that there were any suspicions of attacks or threats against Americans in Niger. And the secretary, Antony Blinken, talked with Bazoum and reiterated that the US "is dedicated to finding a peaceful resolution that will ensure that Niger remains a strong partner in the security and development of the region."
The Secretary continued his engagement with President Bazoum to discuss developments in Niger. The United States remains committed to the restoration of the democratically elected government, consistent with the position of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union and international partners. We reiterate that the safety and security of President Bazoum and his family are paramount.
