The coup took place on Thursday, when military leaders claimed to have taken control of the country. Bazoum's whereabouts remain unknown, but the EU and France have said they continue to recognize him as the legitimate president.

Niger is one of the world's poorest countries, and relies heavily on foreign aid. The World Bank estimates that the country receives about $2 billion in official development assistance annually.

The coup has been condemned by the United Nations, the African Union, and the United States. The US has said it is "considering all options" in response to the coup, including suspending its own financial aid to Niger.

The coup is a major setback for Niger, which has been a key ally in the fight against the Islamist insurgency in the Sahel region of West Africa. Niger is also a significant producer of uranium, ranking seventh globally.

The coup leaders have said they will hold elections in the coming months, but it is unclear whether they will be able to restore stability to the country. (ILKHA)