[UPDATE-Aug 7-13:30Z] ECOWAS Ultimatum Expired – ‘We Wont Back Down Despite Inhumane Sanctions,’ Niger Junta Claims

Blinken announces suspension of part of assistance programs for Niger The U.S. administration is temporarily suspending a number of assistance programs for Niger, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement published on Friday. “The U.S. government is pausing certain foreign assistance programs benefiting the government of Niger. This interim measure does not impact all U.S. foreign assistance programs in Niger,” he noted Blinken stressed that “the provision of life-saving humanitarian and food assistance will continue.” The United States has until recently provided assistance to Niger, in particular in the areas of economy, development and security. “Further, we…