The member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have not ruled out the potential for a military intervention in Niger, where a military rebel faction has seized power. However, they remain hopeful that a diplomatic resolution to the situation can be achieved, as stated by Senegalese President Macky Sall.
"All possibilities were discussed, including the military option. It is quite anticipated that military intervention would be the last resort. In the meantime, there have been various initiatives, including diplomatic efforts, and there have been discreet discussions led by Nigeria. The military option would only be pursued if all other avenues had been exhausted. The possibility remains, but whether it will be implemented, I cannot say," stated the Senegalese leader in an interview with RFI radio and France 24 television.
The Senegalese president also mentioned that he had been in contact with the ousted Niger's President Mohamed Bazoum. He emphasized that it wasn't Bazoum's decision whether or not ECOWAS forces would intervene in the country. "Clearly, he is deeply concerned. However, I hope that rationality will prevail, and that the junta will take into account the developments in the region, so as not to force us into the ultimate choice of military intervention. <...> I still believe there's room to find a solution through common sense," Sall stated.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from TASS