The European Union (EU) is ready to impose sanctions against Niger in support of ECOWAS's efforts to restore democracy in the coup-hit country, according to a communique.
"EU fully supports the efforts made by ECOWAS and stands ready to support them, including through the establishment of a new regime of individual sanctions," the statement said.
The European bloc welcomed the decisions taken by the ECOWAS Summit on August 10, especially, "the willingness to continue to seek a diplomatic solution to the ongoing crisis, while taking note of the mobilization of the pending force."
In addition, the EU reiterated its support for Nigerien President Mohammed Bazoum, who had been ousted as a result of the coup, and condemned the illegal detention of him and his family, expressed concern about the deterioration of his detention conditions and once again called for his release.
On Thursday, an emergency ECOWAS summit on the situation in Niger was held in Abuja. The organization reportedly instructed the Defense Chiefs of Staff Committee to immediately activate reserve forces to restore constitutional order in Niger.
The move was backed by the African Union, while Russia, the US and the UK called for a diplomatic solution to the crisis in the West African nation.
Moscow warned that a military solution to the crisis in Niger risks prolonging the confrontation and destabilizing the Sahara-Sahel region, as the coup leaders have signaled their readiness to "fight back against any foreign intervention."
At the end of July, Bazoum's own guard, led by Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, removed the president from power. The leaders of most Western countries and the ECOWAS condemned the coup.