West African Military Meeting on Possible Armed Intervention in Niger

The heads of the armed forces of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are set to meet in Ghana on Thursday to discuss the details of a possible military intervention in Niger, although diplomatic efforts remain the preferred approach to restore President Bazoum to power.

The chiefs of staff of West African armies are scheduled to meet in Ghana on Thursday, August 17 to discuss the details of a possible military intervention in Niger, where at least 17 soldiers were killed in an attack by suspected jihadists on Tuesday.

This crucial West African military meeting will take place in Accra, Ghana until Friday, where the details of the planned military intervention to reinstall President Mohamed Bazoum, who was overthrown in the coup on July 26, will be discussed.

While the option of a military operation is still on the table, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) appears to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy with the military regime in power in Niamey.

Discussions between the African Union and ECOWAS, held in Addis Ababa on August 14 during the Peace and Security Council (PSC) meeting, appear to be at an impasse. No statement was issued following the meeting, indicating the difficulties in defining a common roadmap.

Reuters