The Ecowas bloc said it has directed a "standby force" to restore constitutional order in Niger after its Sunday deadline to reinstate ousted President Mohamed Bazoum expired.
Hours earlier, two Western officials told AP that Niger's junta had informed a top US diplomat they would kill Mr Bazoum if neighbouring countries attempted any military intervention to restore his rule.
It is unclear when or where the force will deploy and which countries from the 15-member bloc would contribute to it.
This story is from the August 12, 2023 edition of Manchester Evening News.
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This story is from the August 12, 2023 edition of Manchester Evening News.
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