Massive Pro-Coup Rally in Niger Following French Ambassador's Expulsion

Tens of thousands of people rallied in Niamey, Niger in support of last month's coup, a day after the country's new military rulers ordered France's ambassador to leave. The rally, held at the Seyni Kountche stadium, expressed support for the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) and its goal of removing French soldiers from Niger. The new rulers accuse the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) of being influenced by France, while ECOWAS has imposed sanctions and threatened military action if power is not returned to President Mohamed Bazoum. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with a US diplomat visiting Nigeria to meet with ECOWAS officials.