EU Commission Chief Welcomes ECOWAS Readiness To Send Troops To Niger If Necessary

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday welcomed the decisions taken by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) regarding the recent coup in Niger, including its readiness to send military forces to conduct an operation in the country if necessary.

"The EU and Niger share deep ties developed over decades. The unacceptable attack on the democratically elected government puts these ties in jeopardy. I support the decisions made by Ecowas and welcome its active involvement in ensuring a swift reinstatement of President (Mohamed) Bazoum," von der Leyen tweeted.

Earlier in the day, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell also welcomed the ECOWAS' decisions.

Meanwhile, a number of ECOWAS member states, such as Nigeria, announced their readiness to send troops to conduct an operation in Niger, French radio RFI reported, citing sources. A Nigerian diplomat reportedly told RFI that part of the Nigerian armed forces is ready for a possible operation and is stationed near the border with Niger.