Foreign nationals are queuing outside an airport in Niger’s capital, waiting for French military evacuation flights, as defense officials from a regional bloc gather to discuss how to respond to last week’s military coup in the country. France, Italy, and Spain have announced evacuations of their citizens and other Europeans in Niamey, following concerns they could become trapped after the detention of President Mohamed Bazoum and the seizure of power by soldiers. The West African regional bloc ECOWAS has threatened to use force to restore Bazoum to power, but two of Niger’s neighboring countries have sided with the coup leaders and warned that any intervention would be seen as an act of war.
A meeting of defense chiefs from the 15-member bloc has begun in Nigeria’s capital to discuss next steps. The meeting aims to address how to negotiate with the officers involved in the hostage situation in the Republic of Niger, according to Abdel-Fatau Musah, the ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs, peace, and stability. ECOWAS has also imposed sanctions on the coup leaders, including a block on energy transactions with Niger. Power transmission from Nigeria to Niger was cut off as of Tuesday, impacting the already struggling country.
While France, Italy, and other European countries have organized evacuations for their citizens, the United States has yet to announce any decision on evacuation. Niger is an important counter-terror base for the United States in the Sahel, and a withdrawal would risk its longstanding investments in the country’s fight against armed extremists. Leaving the country would also open the door for Russian influence, as the Wagner mercenary group already has a significant presence in neighboring countries.
The airport in Niamey has seen hundreds of people lining up, hoping to leave, but the cancellation of one of the French flights has caused frustration. People are fearful of reprisal attacks if neighboring countries intervene militarily. While the situation in Niamey has calmed after violent protests, tension still lingers.
ECOWAS has vowed to use military force if economic and travel sanctions do not succeed in rolling back the coup. The use of force is considered a real option by the diplomatic community. The M62 Movement, an activist group organizing protests, has called for residents in Niamey to block the airport until foreign military forces leave the country.
In conclusion, the situation in Niger remains tense, with foreign nationals seeking evacuation and regional blocs grappling with how to respond to the military coup. The international community is closely monitoring the developments and considering various options to restore stability and democracy in the country.
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