Niger's ruling junta has ordered police to expel France's ambassador which follows an announcement by French President Emmanuel Macron that France's ambassador to Niger would stay in the country.
Macron reiterated Paris' support for ousted President Mohammed Bazoum, who was overthrown by Niger's military leadership.
The junta leadership has been urged by Western countries and the West African bloc Ecowas to reinstate the ousted president.
Macron says their policy is the right one which is based on the courage of President Bazoum, and on the commitments of their ambassador who is remaining despite all the pressure, despite all the declarations made by the illegitimate authorities.