The military that has seized power in Niger is demanding that France set a timetable for the withdrawal of its troops from the African country. This information was reported by Al Arabiya TV.
According to it, the parties are discussing the withdrawal of French troops specifically operating in the African Sahel zone known as "Barkhan." The negotiations involve representatives of the French military units stationed within Niger. Notably, discussions regarding the terms of troop withdrawal have excluded the French ambassador in Niamey and representatives of the central authorities who do not recognize the legitimacy of the African state government formed by the rebels.
On September 5, the newspaper Le Monde, citing sources, reported that France has initiated negotiations with the military authorities in Niger regarding the potential withdrawal of a portion of its troops. However, the newspaper did not specify the exact number of soldiers that may depart from Niger or provide a timetable for their withdrawal. It is suggested that some French servicemen could be relocated to neighboring countries, particularly Chad, or partially repatriated to France.
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Photo: Vincent van Zeijst/Creative Commons 4.0
Based on materials from TASS