French President Macron announces the removal of troops and recall of ambassador following Niger coup.

President Emmanuel Macron has announced that France will recall its ambassador and cease all military cooperation with Niger in response to the recent coup in the country. He stated that the withdrawal of the ambassador and several diplomats would take place in the coming hours. Macron also declared that military collaboration between France and Niger was now over, and French troops would be withdrawn in the following months. The coup occurred on July 26 when a military junta ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. France's presence in Niger has been met with opposition and protests, leading to strained relations. Macron's decision is a significant blow to France's counter-terrorism efforts in the Sahel region and its influence in the area, but he emphasized that France would not allow itself to be influenced by the coup leaders. Macron continues to recognize Bazoum as the legitimate authority in Niger and referred to him as a "hostage." Prior to the coup, the Nigerien military leaders had instructed the French ambassador to leave the country, but the French government refused to comply with the ultimatum. The coup leaders also recently barred French aircraft from flying over Niger, with the exception of prior authorized flights. Air France confirmed that it is not currently flying over Niger's airspace.