"US Issues Firm Warning to Niger Coup Plotters: "They Might Force Our Hand"

The United States of America has delivered a stern warning to those behind the coup attempt in Niger Republic. Victoria Nuland, the acting deputy secretary of the US, cautioned that the US might resort to military action if the coup plotters fail to restore democratic governance. Nuland conveyed this message during a virtual press conference with journalists based in Niamey, the capital of Niger Republic, on Tuesday, August 8th.

In an official statement released on the US Department of State's website, Nuland remarked, "...there are ongoing developments from various perspectives regarding the direction of governance. Therefore, we will be closely monitoring these developments. Scheduled regional meetings and discussions with allies and partners are also in the pipeline." Nuland emphasized, "We will be observing the situation, but we are well aware of our legal obligations. I have made these obligations crystal clear to the individuals responsible for this situation. Our intention is not to intervene militarily, yet circumstances might force our hand. We have urged them to exercise caution and consider our proposal to resolve this diplomatically and reinstate constitutional order. That summarizes my current stance." Nuland further shared that the US had presented several options to the coup plotters to engage in dialogue and expressed hope that they would heed America's approach. Nevertheless, she underlined that the junta's intended course of action does not align with the constitution, which could strain their relationship with the US.

Nuland disclosed that Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, has been in regular communication with President Bola Tinubu, the ECOWAS Chairman, the AU Chairperson, and various European allies. These conversations reflect the international effort to address the situation in Niger Republic.