The US announces a halt on select aid programs, following the military’s overthrow of Niger’s president, Mohamed Bozoum.
US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, declared, “The US government is pausing certain foreign assistance programmes benefiting the government of Niger.”
Despite the halt, “life-saving humanitarian and food assistance will continue,” and the US maintains its diplomatic and security operations in Niger.
After the coup that ushered Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani into leadership, France froze all development aid to Niger. The European Union and other nations have also halted their support.
Blinken emphasized, “The provision of US assistance to the government of Niger depends on democratic governance and respect for constitutional order,” and urged the “immediate restoration of Niger’s democratically elected government.”
Niger, one of the world’s poorest countries, relies heavily on aid, receiving about $2 billion annually.
The US contributed $200 million in 2022 and has provided $130 million in the current fiscal year.
