The European Union has condemned the coup in Niger, calling it a “serious attack on stability and democracy.”
In a statement on Friday, the EU said it “reiterates its support for the action of ECOWAS and for the ongoing efforts to allow an immediate return to constitutional order.”
The EU also called for the security and freedom of movement of President Mohamed Bazoum to be guaranteed unconditionally.
“Any breach of the constitutional order will have consequences for cooperation between the EU and Niger, including the immediate suspension of all budget support,” the EU said.
The EU said it would remain in close coordination with the ECOWAS Heads of State.
The coup in Niger is the latest in a series of military takeovers in West Africa. In Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea, military leaders have also overthrown democratically elected governments in recent years.
The coups have raised concerns about the stability of the region and the fight against terrorism. Niger is a key ally in the fight against Boko Haram, an Islamic extremist group that has been terrorizing the region for years.
The coup in Niger is also a setback for the EU, which has been working to promote democracy and stability in the region. The EU has provided Niger with billions of euros in aid in recent years.
The EU has said it will continue to support the people of Niger and will work to restore democracy to the country.
The uranium angle
The coup in Niger also raises concerns about the country’s uranium reserves. Niger is a major producer of uranium, and it is believed to have the world’s ninth-largest reserves. The coup could lead to an increase in the risk of uranium being stolen or sold to terrorist groups.
The WAGNER Group and Russia
The WAGNER Group is a Russian mercenary group that has been operating in Niger for several years. The group is accused of human rights abuses and of supporting the Nigerien government’s efforts to suppress dissent. The coup could further embolden the WAGNER Group, and it could lead to an increase in Russian influence in Niger.
What next for Niger?
The coup in Niger has left the country in a state of uncertainty. The military leaders have yet to announce their demands, and it is unclear how the coup will be resolved.
The international community has condemned the coup, and it is calling for the restoration of democracy in Niger. The future of Niger is uncertain, but the coup is a clear sign that the country is facing a number of serious challenges.
