Coup backers rally in Niger

Thousands of people rallied in Niger's capital yesterday in support of the coup that toppled the democratically elected government, as security concerns mounted among Western nations.

Demonstrators in the heart of Niamey, some brandishing giant Russian flags, chanted anti-French slogans at the demonstration called to mark the anniversary of the west African nation's 1960 independence from France.

Britain and the United States have announced the pulling back of embassy personnel in Niger as a precaution a week after the internationally condemned toppling of elected President Mohamed Bazoum.

US President Joe Biden demanded Bazoum's immediate release, calling for the "preservation of Niger's hard-earned democracy".