Coup in Niger: Russia warns ECOWAS military action will destabilise Sahel region
Russia’s foreign ministry said if ECOWAS attack Niger, there will be unending tensions in the Sahel region. The warning from Putin’s country came as the West regional bloc prepared its standby forces to intervene in Niger.
Russia has however not backed the coup plotters but a proxy mercenary group, the Wagner could take advantage of the situation.
Wagner is already collaborating with Mali and Burkina Faso, whose leaders have backed the coup.
Human Rights Watch, US and UN have said that the detention conditions of deposed President, Mohammed Bazoum is deteriorating.
Mr Bazoum said the junta have refused his son from going to the hospital.
On July 26, 2023, Niger’s presidential guards seized power and ignored warnings from ECOWAS to appoint a new prime minister and members of government.
