The European Union on Monday took a legal step towards imposing sanctions on the military junta that took power in a coup in July.
The 27-nation bloc has condemned the ouster of Niger’s democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum that toppled a key Western partner in the jihadist-hit region.
The EU announced it had adopted a legal framework under which it can now “sanction individuals and entities responsible for actions that threaten the peace, stability and security of Niger”.
The bloc’s foreign policy chief said the move “sends a clear message: military coups bear costs.”
The EU has already suspended security cooperation and financial support with Niger following the military takeover.
Former colonial power France is currently pulling out its 1,500-strong military deployment to the country after a demand from Niger’s new rulers.