On Wednesday evening, soldiers in Niger made a stunning announcement, revealing that they have overthrown the nation’s president, Mohamed Bazoum. This announcement came just hours after the military had effectively blockaded the presidential palace, signaling a significant power shift in this West African nation. The military’s actions have raised serious concerns about the future of governance in Niger, a country that has already faced numerous challenges in maintaining stability and democratic processes.

Following the soldiers’ declaration, President Bazoum did not respond publicly. The military stated in a brief television appearance that the country’s institutions have been suspended and its borders closed, indicating a serious escalation in the political crisis. Earlier that day, Bazoum had reassured the public through his official Twitter account that he and his family were safe and secure, but the swift actions of the military have cast doubt on the stability of his government.

If the military coup is successful, it would mark a troubling continuation of a pattern of successful coups across Africa in recent years, joining a list of countries including Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Chad, and Sudan. This situation could further exacerbate the already volatile environment in West Africa, which is grappling with increasing violence from Islamist insurgencies. Niger, a country of approximately 25 million people, has been a critical ally for Western nations in the fight against extremist groups, particularly in regions around Lake Chad and along its borders with Mali and Burkina Faso.

Since taking office in 2021, President Bazoum has been an essential partner for Western nations, especially as the Russian mercenary group Wagner has expanded its influence in neighboring countries, such as Burkina Faso, Chad, and Mali. Wagner’s involvement in these regions has raised alarms about security dynamics, with reports indicating that at least 1,000 mercenaries are actively operating within these territories, further complicating the security landscape.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken addressed the situation during a press conference in New Zealand, stating that he was monitoring developments in Niger “very closely.” He mentioned that he had spoken with President Bazoum earlier in the day, emphasizing that the United States “resolutely supports” him as the democratically elected leader and called for his immediate release from military custody, underscoring the U.S. commitment to democratic governance in the region.

“We condemn any attempts to seize power through force,” Blinken asserted, highlighting the U.S. engagement with both the Niger government and regional partners to resolve the crisis peacefully. He emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts in restoring order and stability, stating that the U.S. would continue its involvement until the situation is resolved appropriately.

The Nigerien military and air force have received significant support and training from the United States over the years. Nigerien military personnel have undergone training in the U.S., including at prestigious institutions such as the Air Force Academy in Colorado and the Air War College in Alabama, according to a 2021 summary released by the U.S. Embassy in Niamey, Niger’s capital. Currently, about 800 U.S. soldiers are deployed in Niger, and the U.S. military conducts drone operations from an air base located in Agadez, central Niger, further indicating the strategic importance of Niger in the fight against terrorism.

Molly Phee, an experienced official from the State Department focused on African affairs, stated in March that Niger is “one of our most important partners on the continent in terms of security cooperation.” This partnership reflects the mutual interests of both nations in combating terrorism and ensuring regional stability, further underscoring the critical role Niger plays in U.S. foreign policy in West Africa.

Six years ago, Niger was the scene of a tragic attack on U.S. soldiers, where militants ambushed and subsequently pursued U.S. and Nigerien forces. This incident, which resulted in the deaths of four American soldiers near the western village of Tongo Tongo, raised significant questions about the safety and support of U.S. personnel operating in remote and challenging environments.

Since gaining independence from France in 1960, Niger has experienced four successful coups. President Bazoum was elected in a peaceful and democratic election, succeeding two terms under Mahamadou Issoufou. This political history highlights the ongoing struggles for stable governance in a region where democratic processes are often undermined.

In their televised statement, the military officials cited the need to remove Bazoum from power due to “the deteriorating security situation and poor governance.” This justification reflects the deep-seated issues plaguing the nation, as many citizens have expressed frustration over the government’s inability to address security challenges effectively.

Earlier in the day, President Bazoum’s official Twitter page condemned the members of the Presidential Guard for their involvement in what he termed an “anti-Republican move.” He accused them of seeking support from the National Armed Forces and National Guard to undermine his leadership. By Wednesday evening, that tweet had been removed, indicating the rapidly unfolding situation.

Blinken emphasized on Twitter that the collaboration with Niger is contingent upon the continuation of democratic governance. U.S. legislation prohibits military assistance to governments that have assumed power through coups, making the implications of this situation particularly significant for future U.S.-Niger relations.

Blinken remarked that it is up to legal experts to determine whether the developments in Niger technically constitute a coup. However, he asserted that what is evident is an attempt to seize power through force and disrupt the constitution. He has been in discussions with counterparts in France and other allies regarding the situation, and the U.S. Embassy in Niamey is actively monitoring the safety of American citizens in the country.

Michael Birnbaum in Wellington, New Zealand, contributed to this report.