President Mohamed Bazoum of Niger calls on the U.S. to assist in resolving the Niger coup situation

Aug. 4 (UPI) — In a Washington Post op-ed published on Thursday, Niger’s democratically-elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, urged the United States to assist in ending a military coup that has resulted in his capture and detainment. Bazoum emphasized the gravity of the situation and called for the restoration of constitutional order in Niger.

Bazoum argued that the military junta’s coup had no justification and warned of devastating consequences if it succeeds. He also highlighted Niger’s role as a defender of human rights in a region plagued by authoritarianism. Bazoum accused the coup leaders of enlisting Russian mercenaries, specifically the Wagner Group, and expressed concern about the potential expansion of Russian influence in the central Sahel region.

President Joe Biden has joined other international leaders in calling for the release of Bazoum, while France, the European Union, and the Economic Community of West African States have demanded his reinstatement as Niger’s elected leader.

A recent diplomatic mission aimed at securing Bazoum’s release and restoration failed, raising the possibility of military intervention by West African nations. The coup leaders have shown resistance to any attempts to end their rule.

President Bazoum was taken hostage during an illegal military coup led by the presidential guards. General Abdourahmane Tchiani, the leader of the guards, declared himself the new leader of Niger.