Reuters reported that a military plane carrying 87 people evacuated by the authorities from Niger arrived in Rome early today. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani mentioned to RAI that "some Italians decided to stay in Niger," adding that "the Italian embassy in Niamey will remain open." Tajani stated, "There should be no Western military action in Niger."
In a tweet, he also noted, "The Italian government has decided to offer our citizens present in Niamey the opportunity to leave the city with a special flight to Italy. The embassy in Niamey will remain open and operational, also to contribute to mediation efforts."
Italian Ambassador Emilia Gatto indicated that "the number of Italians in Niamey before the partial evacuation was around 80," and she ruled out any risk for those who chose to stay. Among the passengers on the plane were 36 Italians, 21 Americans, four Bulgarians, two Australians, one Briton, one Nigerien, one Hungarian, and one Senegalese, along with military personnel.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stated in a statement that over 40 German citizens were evacuated from Niger by air with France's assistance, and more flights are planned for today, Wednesday.
