WASHINGTON: The United States is pausing certain assistance programs to the government of Niger due to the military coup, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday.
Blinken added that is a temporary measure saying it does not affect all foreign assistance programs in the country.
In a statement, he said life-saving humanitarian and food assistance to Niger will not be stopped.
The US top official in his remarks said the US decision is consistent with steps taken by ECOWAS and the African Union.
He noted the U.S. government will continue to evaluate its foreign assistance to Niger.
Blinken said the US has made it clear that the availability of assistance to the government of Niger depends on the reinstatement of democratic government in the African state.
He demanded the coup leaders to restore democracy in the country to get US assistance without any issues.
US, allies working closely to restore democracy in Niger
Blinken said the US and its allies are taking various measures to restore the elected government of Niger.
The West African defense chiefs on Friday wrapped up talks on potential intervention in Niger and called upon the coup leaders to restore the constitution as early as possible.
Read Also: Niger Junta Terminates Mandates of Ambassadors to US, Nigeria, France, Togo
The situation in Niger has escalated into a standoff between the military junta and ECOWAS, with the latter adopting its toughest stance yet following the ouster of President Mohamed Bazoum.
