Former US Navy Admiral: situation in Niger could lead to full-scale war in Africa
The conflict in Niger may become a prerequisite for the outbreak of hostilities on the African continent – as stated by the former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe and retired US Navy Admiral, James Stavridis, RIA Novosti reports
Earlier, the Economic Community of West African Countries (ECOWAS) gave a week for President Mohamed Bazoum to be returned to power in Niger. Otherwise, as noted by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray, the organisation will use force to restore constitutional order. As reported by Western media, a plan for possible military intervention in the situation in Niger has already been developed.
"Will this lead to a full-blown war in Africa? It certainly has the potential to do so, and would be a significant and devastating event," Mr. Stavridis posted on X (former Twitter social network).
Niger's rebels said an unnamed state is preparing an attack on their country. They also announced the closure of the airspace.
ECOWAS earlier announced that it was suspending financial assistance to Niger, as well as imposing a travel ban and freezing the assets of the coup participants, their family members and all persons who agree to ‘participate in institutions created by the rebel military’. Borders were also closed and commercial and financial transactions between the community countries and Niger were suspended.
On August 6th, thousands of demonstrators gathered in the capital of Niger, Niamey, to express their support for the military who came to power and also to condemn the sanctions imposed on the country by ECOWAS. Before that, a group of Nigerian military announced the removal of President Mohamed Bazoum and the closure of borders.
