A delegation from West Africa, tasked with mediating in Niger after last week’s coup, has left the country after only a few hours, with no visible signs of progress.
The mediators, appointed by the regional body Ecowas, were unable to meet with the coup leader or the deposed president, Mohamed Bazoum.
In response to the coup, Ecowas has imposed sanctions on Niger and has issued a threat to use force if Mr. Bazoum is not reinstated as president. Mr. Bazoum has called on the international community to assist in restoring constitutional order.
Moreover, Mr. Bazoum has warned that the entire Sahel region may come under Russian influence.
Late on Thursday, the coup leaders in Niger also criticized all military agreements with France. It is worth noting that French troops are present in Niger to combat Islamist extremists.