French plane arrives in Niger amid coup

The French government aircraft arrived in Niger, landing in the capital of the republic, Niamey.

It is known that the French Foreign Ministry announced the evacuation of its citizens from Niger, starting on August 1. In addition to France, Italy also announced the evacuation of its citizens, Flightradar reports.

There are currently at least 1,500 French troops and an unknown number of civilians in Niger.

The French military stationed in Niger is engaged in anti-terrorist operations in the border regions of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. French military contingents were also stationed in Mali and Burkina Faso - however, they were expelled during the coup d'état.

Landlocked Niger has had a turbulent political history since gaining independence in 1960. Before July 26, there had been four coups and numerous other attempts, including two previously against Bazoum.

France has had troops in the region for a decade helping to fight armed groups, but some locals say they want the former colonial ruler to stop intervening in their affairs.