Amidst escalating tensions and demands for expulsion by the post-coup military leaders in Niger, France’s ambassador, Sylvain Itte, has left the capital Niamey, along with six colleagues, according to French diplomatic and Nigerien government sources. This move follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement on Sunday, revealing plans to withdraw Ambassador Itte from Niger, along with the French military contingent in the coming months—complying with the demands of the post-coup regime in Niamey. Despite these actions, France has not recognized the authority of the military leaders and continues to advocate for the restoration of the democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum.