Burkina Faso and Mali Warn Against Forcible Restoration of Niger President Amid New Alliances

Military Juntas Issue Warning to ECOWAS

The military juntas in Burkina Faso and Mali have issued a stern warning to the West African bloc ECOWAS, threatening that any attempt to forcibly restore President Mohamed Bazoum in neighboring Niger will be considered a declaration of war against them. This comes after ECOWAS stated that it would take all measures, including the use of force, if President Bazoum was not reinstated following his ousting by Niger’s coup leaders.

Burkina Faso and Mali Cut Ties with the West, Embrace New Alliances

Both Burkina Faso and Mali have severed ties with the West, particularly with former colonial power France, and have turned to form new alliances with Russia. Their decision marks a significant twist in the regional dynamics and could escalate the already volatile situation in the area.

Chadian President Leads Mediation Efforts

Chadian President Mahamat Idris Déby is in Niger, leading mediation efforts on behalf of ECOWAS to find a resolution to the crisis. However, the joint statement from Burkina Faso and Mali threatens to withdraw from the bloc and defend Niger if ECOWAS intervenes militarily. This stance highlights the precarious situation and the potential for further destabilization in the region.