The US says it respects Ecowas‘ resolve to investigate all possibilities for a peaceful settlement to the crisis in Niger after the body authorised a “standby” military deployment.
After President Mohamed Bazoum was overthrown by a military coup on July 26, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced he was joining the Ecowas leadership in their appeal for constitutional order in Niger.
He said that the US would hold the Niger junta responsible for ensuring the safety of Mr. Bazoum, his family, and the jailed officials from his government.
The former president has been under house arrest for more than two weeks, and the US and UN have expressed worry for his health and safety.
A Sunday deadline for the junta to reinstall Mr. Bazoum or face military intervention was disregarded.
Instead, a new cabinet led by military officials has been appointed to govern the nation.