Niger's Presidential Guard Accused of Coup Attempt as Leader's Home Surrounded

Members of Niger's presidential guard surrounded the presidential palace in an attempted coup against President Mohamed Bazoum, who was elected two years ago in the country's first peaceful transfer of power. The African Union and the Economic Community of West African States condemned the coup attempt, while France and the United States voiced concern. The situation remains unclear, with negotiations reportedly underway between the presidential guard and Bazoum's administration. Threats to Bazoum's leadership would undermine Western efforts to stabilize the Sahel region, where extremist groups are active. The international community calls for restraint and the protection of constitutional order.