Anadolu: France's military presence in Niger questioned over disagreements with junta

Paris's direct military intervention in recent events in Niger to bring back "ally" President Mohamed Bazoum could jeopardise France's presence on the continent.

Discussions about France's presence in Niger were also triggered by protests organised in front of the French embassy in Niamey, the capital of the African country. During one of the demonstrations of thousands of people, the French diplomatic building was attacked.

The Paris administration has stated that it will respond immediately and firmly to any encroachment on the interests of France and its citizens.

In this vein, Anadolu Agency gathered facts related to France's actions after the coup in Niger, which has the most powerful military structure in the Sahel region.

Niger is rich in uranium but is one of the poorest countries in the world. The number of French military contingent in this country is 1,500.

At least three French Mirage fighter jets are stationed at a military base near the capital of Niger. Numerous Reaper drones belonging to the Pentagon are also stationed there.

The withdrawal of French troops from Niger will challenge France's military presence in the rest of Africa.

Following the coup, France suspended aid and financial support to Niger. But Paris has not provided clarity on the future of the French military in the country.

According to Le Parisien newspaper, the chief of the French Armed Forces General Staff said that the department is not considering the withdrawal of the French contingent from Niger.

France is expected to insist on maintaining its military presence in Niger as it affects the future of French companies exploiting the rich uranium reserves in the African country.

According to French authorities, the share of Niger's uranium corresponds to only a small fraction of France's reserves. The French press, on the other hand, claims that France imports 15 per cent of the uranium it consumes from the country.

According to Le Monde newspaper, the French company Orano operates at least 3 uranium mines in Niger.