Amidst escalating tensions in Niger following the recent coup, Russia has cautioned the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) against resorting to military action. The Russian foreign ministry has expressed concerns that such intervention could lead to prolonged conflict and destabilize the entire Sahel region.
US Raises Concerns about Wagner Mercenary Group
While Russia maintains that it does not officially support the coup, the US has expressed concern that its Wagner mercenary group might be exploiting the current instability. The United States is backing efforts to reinstate the deposed leader, Mohamed Bazoum.
Protests Near French Military Base
Supporters of the coup, some of whom were seen waving Russian flags, staged protests near a French military base in the capital city of Niamey. Demonstrators chanted slogans against France and ECOWAS, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region.
ECOWAS Considers Military Intervention Options
As tensions rise, officials from ECOWAS member countries are reportedly convening to discuss potential plans for a military intervention. While the regional bloc has expressed a preference for a diplomatic solution, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu emphasized that all options, including the use of force, remain on the table.
Humanitarian Concerns for Detained Former President
Concerns for the well-being of deposed President Mohamed Bazoum have escalated. Reports from various sources, including the EU foreign policy chief, UN rights commissioner, and Human Rights Watch, indicate that Bazoum and his family have been subjected to harsh conditions of detention, raising concerns about potential human rights violations.
Uncertainty Surrounds ECOWAS Standby Force
ECOWAS announced its decision to deploy a “standby force” to Niger to restore constitutional order. However, details about the nature and timeline of this deployment remain unclear. The bloc’s move follows an emergency meeting in Nigeria to address the ongoing crisis and the coup’s leaders’ failure to reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum as demanded.
International Actors Watch Developments Closely
Both France and the US, which maintain military bases in Niger, have been closely monitoring the situation. France and the US have utilized these bases for operations against jihadist groups in the region, adding a layer of complexity to their roles in the crisis.
Amidst growing uncertainty and rising tensions, the situation in Niger continues to evolve, with international actors carefully assessing their responses and potential courses of action.
