Summary:
- The US expresses deep concern for the health and safety of Niger's President Bazoum and his family amid an apparent coup.
- Secretary Blinken has prioritized discussing President Bazoum's safety in their conversations, underlining the seriousness of the situation.
- Acting Deputy Secretary Newland's recent visit to Niger underscores the US government's commitment to addressing the concerns surrounding the apparent coup.
With respect to President Bazoum, we are greatly worried about his health and his personal safety and the personal safety of his family. In all of the conversations Secretary Blinken has had with President Bazoum, inquiring about his safety has been one of the first things he has brought up. It is one of the reasons that Acting Deputy Secretary Newland wanted to see him personally when she was in the country on Monday. And it's a matter that remains of concern to us.
Amid an apparent coup in Niger, the United States has expressed 'growing concern' for the safety and well-being of President Bazoum. Secretary Blinken's conversations with President Bazoum have consistently focused on inquiring about his safety and that of his family. This concern was further highlighted by Acting Deputy Secretary Newland's personal visit to the country on Monday. The US government's apprehensions reflect the precarious political situation unfolding in Niger.