Niger’s ruling junta has accused the European Union of mishandling €1.3 million ($1.35 million) in flood relief funds, claiming the money was distributed to international NGOs in a non-transparent manner without sufficient consultation with local authorities. This accusation, issued in a statement on Friday, has heightened tensions between the junta and the EU.

In response, the European Union rejected the allegations, expressing strong disagreement with the claims made by Niger’s transitional authorities. “The European Union expresses its profound disagreement with the justifications and accusations made by the transitional authorities,” stated the European External Action Service (EEAS).

The EU subsequently announced on Saturday that it is recalling its ambassador to Niger for consultations in Brussels. This decision reflects a further breakdown in relations between the bloc and Niger’s junta, which has been at odds with international partners since it seized power in a coup earlier this year.

While the EU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Nigerien people, the dispute underscores ongoing tensions over governance and aid management in the region. The recall of the ambassador marks a significant escalation in the diplomatic standoff.