The Conversation published on 29 July 2023 a commentary titled "Niger Coup: Military Takeover Is a Setback for Democracy and US Interests in West Africa" by Leonardo A. Villalon, University of Florida.
This is a good review of events leading up to the military coup in Niger. It underscores Western opposition to the coup. The author suggests that the coup leaders may turn to Russia's mercenary Wagner Group for support.
The official position of Russia and China on the coup would seem to be clear on the basis of their agreement with the UN "Security Council Press Statement on Situation in Niger."
The statement condemns the coup, calls for the unconditional release of President Bazoum, and expresses concern over the unconstitutional changes of government.
Russia's position became much less clear, however, following the comments of Yevgeniy Prigozhin, head of the mercenary Wagner Group, who blamed the coup on the legacy of colonialism and said that his organization is capable of dealing with situations like that playing out in Niger. He added that the Wagner Group is "able to establish order and destroy terrorists, preventing them from harming the peaceful population of states."
Comment: The removal of democratically-elected President Mohamed Bazoum is clearly a setback for US and French policy in the region. It is less clear what it means for China and, especially, Russia.
