U.S confirms appointment of new Ambassador to Niger

The U.S. State Department has confirmed the appointment of Kathleen FitzGibbon as Washington’s new envoy to Niger now led by a junta that toppled on July 26 west-backed leader Mohamed Bazoum.
Vedant Patel, the deputy spokesman of the State Department confirmed FitzGibbon’s appointment arguing that she is going there to lead the mission during a critical time and to support the American community and to coordinate on U.S. Government’s efforts.
The diplomat is rumored to arrive in Niamey later this week, Voice of America reports, citing a U.S. official.
V. Patel however argues that there are no plans for the new envoy to present her credentials to the new leaders. “Her arrival does not reflect a change in our position, and we continue to advocate for a diplomatic solution that respects the constitutional order in Niger”, he explained.
Niger is currently led by a junta that deposed on July 26 Bazoum. The new leaders cut off ties with former colonial power France.
The U.S. sought to secure Bazoum’s release but failed following the U.S. State Department’s acting No. 2’s visit to Niamey to hold talks with the junta. She described the meeting as “difficult”.