The African Union suspended Niger from all activities and told its members to avoid any action that could legitimize the military junta.
The coup in Niger has sparked alarm among Western allies and democratic African states who fear it could allow militant groups in the Sahel region to expand their reach and give Russia a foothold to increase its influence, Reuters writes.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOVAS) is trying to negotiate with the junta, but says it is ready to send troops to Niger to restore constitutional order if diplomatic efforts fail, Radio Free Europe reports.
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The Peace and Security Council of the African Union announced today that they have confirmed the decision to activate the ECOVAS standby force.
The Council asked the Commission to assess the economic, social and security implications of the deployment of such forces.
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