High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell said on Wednesday that, if confirmed, the coup in Gabon will contribute to the intensification of instability in the West African region.
“The news is confusing. I received the news early this morning. If this is confirmed, it is another military coup that increases instability in the whole region,” Borrell stated upon his arrival at the meeting of EU defense ministers in Toledo, Spain. He said that the ministers would discuss the situation in the African country, but he couldn't anticipate the official reaction of the European bloc.
Previously, a number of Gabonese military officials announced on national television that they will seize power after the country's electoral body affirmed that current President Ali Bongo Ondimba won his third presidential term.