The population of Niger, which has been struggling with food insecurity for many years, may face increased malnutrition risks if the West moves forward with its sanctions plans over the recent military coup, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) told Sputnik.
Earlier in the month, the Council of the European Union agreed on a framework to sanction individuals and entities behind the military takeover in Niger.
"The situation for many in Niger, in particular in some parts of Niger, has already been [made] very difficult by the effects of years of armed conflict, climate change, global inflation ... Now, what we see is that if sanctions are imposed, the risk for already vulnerable populations might increase further and may result in an increase of malnutrition," ICRC Director of Operations Martin Schuepp said.
In this regard, he stressed the need for any sanctions and restrictions not to apply to humanitarian aid so that the struggling population could receive the necessary help.
A coup took place in Niger on July 26. President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted and detained by his own guard, led by Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani. Following the military takeover, the ECOWAS suspended all cooperation with Niger and threatened military intervention if the rebels do not reinstate Bazoum. The EU followed suit, suspending development and security cooperation with Niger.