Russia Warns Against Military Intervention in Niger, Citing Potential for Prolonged Confrontation

In response to the announcement by the regional bloc Ecowas regarding the formation of a standby force, Russia has issued a warning, cautioning that any military intervention in Niger could result in a drawn-out confrontation. The Russian foreign ministry has expressed concerns that such intervention would destabilize the Sahel region as a whole.

While Russia does not officially endorse the coup, the situation has garnered attention from the United States, which supports efforts to reinstate the ousted leader, Mohamed Bazoum. The US has pointed out that its Wagner mercenary group appears to be capitalizing on the existing instability.

Proponents of the coup, some of whom were seen waving Russian flags, demonstrated near a French military base close to the capital city, Niamey. Among their chants were slogans like “down with France, down with Ecowas.” Both France and the US maintain military bases in Niger, using them as launching points for operations against extremist groups in the broader region.

Reports indicate that military officials from Ecowas member countries will convene to devise plans for a potential military intervention. While the bloc has expressed willingness to explore diplomatic solutions, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu stated that all options, including the use of force, are under consideration.

While the US hasn’t explicitly endorsed military action, it has called on the junta to step aside and facilitate the restoration of Niger’s democratic constitution.

As of now, the Niger junta has not formally responded to the latest statements issued by Ecowas leaders. Meanwhile, concerns are rising about the well-being of Mr. Bazoum, who has been held captive since the military assumed power on July 26. According to reports, he and his family have been deprived of basic necessities such as food, electricity, and medical care for several days. The EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, and UN rights commissioner Volker Turk have both raised alarms about the conditions of Mr. Bazoum’s detention, suggesting they might amount to inhumane and degrading treatment.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has quoted Mr. Bazoum as describing their treatment as “inhuman and cruel.” He specifically highlighted his son’s urgent medical needs due to a serious heart condition.

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BBC