The army seized power in July, overthrowing President Mohamed Bazoum, who had close ties with Western countries in their efforts to combat jihadist militants in the region.

The US law mandates that aid is cut off in the event of a coup, and that it can only be restored if the coup leaders facilitate a democratic transition.

The US State Department said it would continue to monitor the situation in Niger and maintain its military presence for now.

--Reuters/ChannelAfrica--