Acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland swears in the Department’s newest Foreign Service Officers and Specialist during an A-100 graduation ceremony at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., on August 11, 2023.
Meanwhile, the Spokesperson of the US Department of State, Matthew Miller has confirmed the Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with the former Nigerien President Mohamed Issoufou as part of steps to mediate in the standoff in the West African country.
According to him, the Secretary expressed grave concern at the continued unlawful detention under deteriorating conditions of President Bazoum and his family.
Blinken condemned the refusal of those who seized power in Niger to release Bazoum’s family members as a demonstration of goodwill. The Secretary assured the former president of the United States’ continued dedication to finding a peaceful resolution that ensures Niger can remain a strong partner in security and development in the region.
