Summary:
- West African leaders convene in Nigeria to address the ongoing political crisis in Niger and express their commitment to diplomatic solutions.
- Ekoas leaders condemn the alleged coup and maintain their readiness for potential military intervention, despite internal divisions.
- The junta establishes a new government in Niger, signaling their determination to hold power.
- Challenges arise due to differing opinions among West African nations, with some supporting the junta.
- Diplomatic efforts continue as the UN voices concerns about the treatment of the deposed president.
West African leaders are striving to find a peaceful resolution to the political crisis in Niger, as the junta establishes a new government. Ekoas leaders convened in Nigeria to discuss the situation, expressing a commitment to diplomacy while not ruling out the possibility of military intervention to reinstate the former democratic government.
The meeting held in Nigeria involved West African leaders from the Economic Community of West African States (Ekoas). While the leaders expressed a strong condemnation of what they view as an attempted coup, they also underscored their preparedness for military intervention. However, this stance has encountered challenges due to the lack of unanimous support within the bloc, with some neighboring countries such as Mali and Burkina Faso backing the junta's actions.
Despite the Ekoas deadline for military intervention passing without immediate action, the possibility of such intervention remains on the table. The division among member nations has contributed to the hesitancy in taking swift military action.
Elaine Cobb, a CBS News foreign correspondent, reported that the recent meeting did not yield significant progress towards a resolution. While the leaders reiterated their commitment to diplomacy and peaceful solutions, no concrete steps have been taken to resolve the crisis.
The situation in Niger continues to evolve, with West African leaders striving to balance diplomatic efforts with the potential for military intervention. The junta's establishment of a new government has further complicated the situation, leading to uncertainties about the path forward.