Thousands of coup supporters rally in Niger against French troops

The protesters also accused ECOWAS of operating under French influence and of collaborating to impose sanctions on Niger and issue military intervention threats in the pursuit of reinstating President Mohamed Bazoum.

The rally came just a day after the leaders of ECOWAS made the decision to activate their regional standby force, potentially employing it to restore constitutional order in response to the overthrow of Bazoum on July 26.

The protesters waved Russian flags and placards with anti-French slogans. They chanted slogans such as "Down with France, down with ECOWAS."

Niger's former colonial ruler, France, maintains a military base with around 1,500 troops aimed at aiding the country in counteracting terrorist threats. The protesters lent their support to coup leader Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani while demanding the withdrawal of French troops from Niger. This demand coincided with the junta's assertions that France was endeavoring to disrupt the nation's stability.

In response to these events, France's Foreign Ministry reiterated its support for the ECOWAS initiative to overturn the coup in Niger. This statement came subsequent to an emergency summit held in Nigeria. The ministry also strongly condemned the ongoing coup attempt and the abduction of President Bazoum and his family.

Ever since the military deposed Bazoum, Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, the former commander of Niger's presidential guard, has declared himself the leader of a transitional government. (ILKHA)