Niger Coup Leaders Face International Consequences as West African Leaders Convene

Military leaders in Niger have warned against any armed intervention in the country as west African leaders meet to decide on further actions to pressure the army to restore constitutional order after a coup last week. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the West African Economic and Monetary Union could suspend Niger from their institutions, cut off the country from the regional central bank and financial market, or close borders. The coup leaders have warned against military intervention and called for citizens to protest against ECOWAS. The international community has condemned the coup and demanded the restoration of President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been confined within the presidential palace. The European Union and France have suspended financial support and cooperation with Niger, while the African Union has demanded the military return to their barracks and restore constitutional order within 15 days.