Niger's junta defies international pressure as it seeks to consolidate power

A coup in Niger has ousted the democratically elected president Mohamed Bazoum.
The ruling junta ordered the French ambassador to leave but France has refused.
West African regional bloc ECOWAS is considering military intervention to reverse the coup.
The junta is strengthening its military position and seeking support from Mali and Burkina Faso.
Algeria has proposed a civilian-led transition to resolve the crisis but most countries oppose military action.