Niger’s junta reportedly conveyed a threat to top US diplomat Victoria Nuland during her visit to the country this week, stating that they would kill deposed President Mohamed Bazoum if neighboring countries attempted a military intervention to restore his rule…CONTINUE READING
This revelation was made by two Western officials familiar with the matter.
The junta’s representatives informed Nuland of the threat against Bazoum while discussing the situation. A US official confirmed this account. The ousted President Bazoum claims to be held hostage at his residence since his overthrow on July 26.
In response to the coup and Bazoum’s removal, the regional bloc ECOWAS announced plans to deploy a “standby force” to restore democracy in Niger. However, details regarding the composition, location, and timing of the military intervention force were not provided by ECOWAS officials.
Leaders from the West African region met in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, to discuss the next steps after the military junta defied ECOWAS’ deadline for reinstating Bazoum.
This meeting included nine of the expected 11 heads of state, along with non-ECOWAS leaders of Mauritania and Burundi. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized the importance of prioritizing diplomatic negotiations and dialogue to address the crisis.
He called for a sense of urgency while potentially backing away from the earlier threat of using military force.
As the junta maintains its hold and resists international pressure, the prospects for successful negotiations appear limited. The International Crisis Group noted that significant concessions from both sides are required for dialogue to succeed, which they have been unwilling to make thus far.
The junta’s consolidation of power has led to the suspension of aid from Western nations such as France and the United States, who had been supporting Niger’s security forces. While Russia’s direct involvement in the coup remains unclear, it could leverage the situation to expand its influence in the region, potentially destabilizing efforts by Western nations.
The people of Niger are bearing the brunt of the crisis, as power cuts and lack of access to electricity impact daily life in Niamey, the capital. The junta’s continued hold on power and the limitations of potential negotiations underscore the complex challenges facing the region.
