The government of Niger has announced the nationalization of Somair, a uranium mining venture operated by the French nuclear company Orano. This decision marks a significant escalation in tensions between Niger's ruling military junta and France. Somair, which has been operated by Orano for over 50 years, is a major uranium producer in Niger, a country rich in uranium resources. The nationalization follows months of crisis and a loss of operational control by Orano. Niger’s junta accused Orano of "irresponsible acts" and cited breaches of contract as justification for the takeover. The move aims to reinforce Niger's control over its strategic uranium resources amid deteriorating relations with France. Orano, which is majority-owned by the French state and a key supplier for France’s nuclear power sector—responsible for about 70% of the country’s electricity—has expressed strong disapproval of the nationalization and the attempt to evict it from the country. The takeover of Somair by Niger’s military government could have implications for the supply of uranium to France and Europe. The nationalization is part of Niger’s broader pivot away from its former colonial ruler, France.