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EU Moves Closer to Imposing Sanctions on Niger's Junta Leaders


A video frame grab image from ORTN - Télé Sahel showing Niger's new military ruler General Abdourahamane Tiani, reading a statement on national television, Aug 19, 2023
A video frame grab image from ORTN - Télé Sahel showing Niger's new military ruler General Abdourahamane Tiani, reading a statement on national television, Aug 19, 2023

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM — The European Union on Monday took a legal step towards imposing sanctions on Niger’s new military rulers that were responsible for overthrowing President Mohamed Bazoum in July.

The 27-nation bloc has condemned Niger's junta for ousting Bazoum, a key Western partner in the jihadist-hit region.

The EU said it had adopted a legal framework under which it can now "sanction individuals and entities responsible for actions that threaten the peace, stability and security of Niger."

EU's foreign policy chief said the move "sends a clear message — military coups bear costs."

The Western economic bloc has already suspended security cooperation and financial support with Niger following the military takeover.

Former colonial power France is in the process of pulling out its 1,500-strong military deployment to the Sahel country after a demand from Niger's new rulers.

A relative told AFP on Sunday that Bazoum is with his family and is doing well, after claims by the country's new military rulers this week that he had tried to escape.

Since he was toppled by the military, Bazoum has refused to resign and has been held at his residence in the heart of the presidential palace along with his wife and son.

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