France confirmed the release of Stephane Jullien, a French citizen previously held in Niger following a coup.
Jullien, who has been a long-standing businessman in Niger, also played a part in voicing the concerns of French expatriates at the French embassy in the country.
He was taken into custody on September 8 due to escalating tensions after the coup in the former French-controlled West African nation.
This coup, which took place on July 26, deposed President Mohamed Bazoum, a close ally of France.
Despite having approximately 1,500 soldiers stationed in Niger to combat jihadists in the Sahel, France has condemned the post-coup leadership.
Amidst these tensions, there’s growing speculation that France might execute a comprehensive military withdrawal from Niger.
A representative from the French defense ministry claimed that France will be forced into a full military pullout from Niger.
The source added that last week the French army was holding talks with Niger’s military over withdrawing “elements” of its presence.
Earlier this month, Niger’s military regime accused France of deploying forces in several West African countries with a view to “military intervention.”
“France continues to deploy its forces in several ECOWAS countries as part of preparations for an aggression against Niger, which it is planning in collaboration with this community organization,” regime spokesman Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane said.
Tensions escalated between the two sides after Paris supported the deposed President Mohamed Bazoum post the July coup.
The Sahel nation is also in conflict with ECOWAS, the West African coalition, which might take military action if efforts to reinstate Bazoum fail.
