“The African country’s junta has ignored the ultimatum from Western-backed neighbors
Niger’s coup-imposed government has promised “a vigorous and instantaneous response” to any violation of the country’s airspace.
Niamey is bracing for a potential military intervention after a deadline, set by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum to power, expired on Sunday.
“Faced with the threat of intervention which is becoming clearer from neighboring countries, Niger’s airspace is closed from this day on Sunday… until further notice,” the military government announced.
The statement, as cited by AFP, warned that “any attempt to violate the airspace” will result in a “vigorous and instantaneous response.”
The National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland, which assumed power in a military coup last month, claimed that hostile regional forces have already conducted “pre-deployment in preparation for the intervention” in two unnamed countries of Central Africa.
“Any state involved will be considered co-belligerent,” it added.”
www.rt.com/africa/580920-niger-airspace-invasion-threat/