On Saturday, the French foreign ministry announced its backing for the West African regional group ECOWAS in its endeavors to prevent the success of the military coup in Niger. Catherine Colonna, the French Foreign Minister, engaged in discussions with Niger’s Prime Minister Ouhoumoudou Mahamadou and the country’s ambassador in Paris on the same day.
Previously, Colonna mentioned that the leaders responsible for the coup in Niamey had until Sunday to relinquish control, or else the warning from Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member nations about potential military intervention must be regarded as significant. Colonna emphasized the legitimacy of this threat during an interview on French public radio.
However, France did not clarify on Saturday whether its support would involve providing military assistance for an ECOWAS operation in Niger.
A day earlier, ECOWAS announced that its military leaders had reached a consensus on a potential course of action for intervening in Niger.
We have finalized all the components required for any potential intervention,” stated ECOWAS commissioner Abdel-Fatau Musah. He further explained that these components encompass the necessary resources, the strategy for deployment, and the timing involved.
Musah emphasized, “Our preference is for diplomatic efforts to succeed, and we want to clearly convey to the junta that we are affording them ample chances to undo their actions.”
The individuals who orchestrated the coup have issued a stern caution that they will respond to any use of force with a corresponding application of force.
Mali and Burkina Faso, where military officials have assumed control since 2020, have cautioned that any involvement from neighboring countries would be interpreted as an act equivalent to a “war declaration” against them.
Russia, which has expanded its influence in the Sahel region in recent times, stated that foreign involvement wouldn’t bring a solution to the crisis.
Neighboring Benin and Germany have jointly appealed for ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.
The United States announced its decision on Friday to temporarily halt some aid to Niger in the wake of the coup.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that certain foreign aid programs benefiting Niger’s government would be put on hold. Blinken emphasized that the continuation of U.S. assistance to Niger is contingent upon the principles of democratic governance and adherence to constitutional norms. He also noted that the U.S. would continually reassess its foreign aid as the situation unfolds.
Blinken refrained from detailing the specific programs that would be impacted. However, he made it clear that essential aid like humanitarian support, food assistance, and measures for safeguarding the well-being of American personnel would persist. He emphasized the enduring dedication to assisting the Nigerien populace in upholding their democratic achievements. Furthermore, he reiterated the urgent appeal for the prompt reinstatement of Niger’s legitimately-elected government.