Niger’s interim Prime Minister, Lamine Zeine Ali Mahaman, launched strong accusations against France at the UN, blaming the former coloniser for destabilising the Sahel nation. He claimed Paris trained and funded terrorists, exploited natural resources, and obstructed Niger’s development projects. Mahaman cited past incidents, including killings of demonstrators and worshippers, linking current unrest to the country’s colonial history. Relations have deteriorated since Niger’s 2023 military coup, which ousted French troops, with Mali and Burkina Faso following suit and turning to Russia for military support. The remarks reflect growing anti-West sentiment in the Sahel as new alliances and foreign partnerships reshape regional dynamics.