Sources told Reuters today, Wednesday, that European Union countries have begun laying the groundwork to impose initial sanctions on members of the military council in Niger, which seized power last month. The new military leaders have so far rejected international diplomatic efforts for mediation. Neighboring countries that support the coup have called on the United Nations to prevent military intervention threatened by other West African nations.
An EU official involved in the sanction discussions and a diplomat from the bloc stated that the EU has started to discuss the criteria for punitive measures. The official added that the measures will target "undermining democracy" in Niger, and an agreement is likely to be reached soon. The diplomat mentioned, "The next step will be to impose sanctions on individuals from the military council" deemed responsible.
Leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are scheduled to meet tomorrow, Thursday, after the deadline for reinstating ousted President Mohamed Bazoum has lapsed. The EU official and another diplomat from the EU indicated that officials within the bloc are discussing the matter today, Wednesday. The three sources spoke on the condition of anonymity.
For his part, the spokesperson for the European Commission on Foreign Affairs, Peter Stano, confirmed that "the EU is ready to support ECOWAS decisions, including the imposition of sanctions." EU foreign ministers are expected to discuss the situation in Niger, including sanctions, at their meeting in Toledo, Spain, on August 31.
