Niger's President Mohamed Bazoum, a pro-Western leader in the Sahel, was removed from power in a military coup.
The National Council for the Safeguarding of the Country detained him and imposed a curfew with closed borders, suspending all institutions. The coup was likely triggered by frustrations with the government's handling of rebel uprisings in the Sahel region and rising living costs.
Western powers have invested significantly in Niger, making it a key ally in the region. The United States called for Bazoum's immediate release, but the coup could complicate Western efforts to counter the rebellion in the area.
This situation also presents an opportunity for Russia to increase its influence in Niger and the broader region.
Source: CRUX - YouTube