On Aug. 9, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned the Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) in Niger that the U.S. holds the coup leaders responsible for the “safety and security of President Bazoum, his family, and detained members of the government,” in a short press statement.
The statement also noted, “The United States joins the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in calling for the restoration of constitutional order in Niger. The United States appreciates the determination of ECOWAS to explore all options for the peaceful resolution of the crisis. Democracy is the best foundation for development, social cohesion, and stability in Niger. We stand with the Nigerien people in working toward these goals.
“We echo the ECOWAS condemnation of the illegal detention of President Mohamed Bazoum, his family, and members of the government, as well as the unacceptable conditions under which they are being held, and call for their immediate release.” (https://www.state.gov/ecowas-call-for-restoration-of-constitutional-order-in-the-republic-of-niger/)
According to an Associated Press story on Aug.10, “Niger’s junta told a top U.S. diplomat that they would kill deposed President Mohamed Bazoum if neighboring countries attempted any military intervention to restore his rule.”
