Mali
Mali's military leader, Assimi Goita, revealed on Tuesday that he recently held a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the current situation in Niger.
Niger has experienced a coup by a junta, raising concerns in the international community.
In a message shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Goita stated that Putin emphasized the significance of a peaceful resolution to ensure stability in the Sahel region.
Western nations are apprehensive that Niger might follow the path of Mali, where a previous coup led to the involvement of Russian Wagner group mercenaries in counter-insurgency efforts.
Putin has urged the restoration of constitutional order in Niger. On the other hand, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner group, expressed support for the coup. Interestingly, there has been a notable surge in pro-Russian sentiment in Niger since the coup, evident in rallies where junta supporters waved Russian flags.
00:51
Niger says Benin's blockade of its oil exports violates trade agreements
00:53
Niger: Court session on lifting of Bazoum’s presidential immunity postponed
11:10
Corruption: a critical barrier to progress [Business Africa]
Go to video
Nigeria's Senate proposes death penalty for drug trafficking
Go to video
Four Tiktokers arrested after filming prank video outside Police Station
01:26
Prince Harry, Meghan in Nigeria for Invictus games, Soldier meetings