Negotiations of African countries to solve Niger crisis fail

A recent attempt by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to negotiate a solution to the political crisis in Niger has failed.

The regional organization had imposed economic sanctions against Niger and set a deadline for restoring the democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum to power, who was overthrown on July 26.

ECOWAS envoys left on Thursday night after failing to meet with the military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, or the deposed president.

The organization has warned that force may be used, but emphasized that military intervention is a last resort.

The situation has led to strained regional relations and challenges with international partners like France.

Coups in Burkina Faso and Mali, governed by military forces, have also complicated the situation, with both nations stating that military intervention against Niger would be considered an act of war.

Deposed President Bazoum has warned of devastating consequences if the coup succeeds and has called for international support to restore constitutional order.

Pro-coup demonstrations have occurred in several cities, some displaying anti-France sentiments and Russian flags.

Military coup leaders have broken defense agreements with France, suspended curfew since July 26, and taken French media off the air, actions condemned by Paris and the European Union. France and Spain have been actively evacuating their citizens from Niger.

The situation reflects broader regional instability and raises concerns about potential Russian influence through the Wagner paramilitary group.

France continues to maintain troops in Niger for anti-jihadist efforts, highlighting the international complexity of the crisis.

With information from AFP

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