AI summary:

Amid a coup in Niger, Victoria Nuland from the US State Department attempted to influence the situation but was denied access and achieved no breakthrough with coup leaders. The incident reveals US interests, including a drone base and military support, while the country’s closed airspace and borders complicate aid efforts. The coup underscores anti-colonial sentiments, challenging French influence as the junta annulled defense pacts. Though Nuland’s efforts failed, the US might exploit the situation, possibly replacing French dominance with their own interests. The junta’s decision to maintain ties with the US could reshape power dynamics, aiming to remove foreign control and align more with Russia or the US for greater sovereignty.