The Military Council in Niger announced on Tuesday its willingness to engage in dialogue to resolve a regional crisis stemming from the military coup that took place last month.
Russia and the United States have both called for a peaceful solution to the situation.
Western powers and African democratic governments have urged the leaders of the coup in Niger to restore ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been detained since July 26th.
However, the military council rejected these demands and refused to engage in negotiations.
Leaders of West African armies are scheduled to meet in Ghana on Thursday and Friday to prepare for a potential military intervention if diplomatic efforts fail, as warned by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Any military intervention could further destabilize the Sahel region.
The coup and its aftermath have attracted the attention of international powers with strategic interests in the region.
Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the neighboring Niger coup with the military ruler of Mali in a phone call on Tuesday.
This conversation is likely to raise concerns among Western governments, which fear the growing Russian influence in the West African Sahel region.
Sabrina Singh, spokesperson for the US department of Defense (Pentagon), mentioned that President Joe Biden’s administration is committed to reaching a diplomatic solution.
Paulo Tanobo, President of Nigeria and current head of ECOWAS, stated on Tuesday that ECOWAS enjoys support from the Central African Economic Community in its efforts to address the Niger coup and restore constitutional order.
Niger remained a Western ally during Bazoum’s rule, hosting forces from the United States, France, Germany, and Italy under agreements with the now-deposed civilian government.
The coup leaders in Niger canceled several military agreements with France, but Paris remained indifferent, stating that it does not recognize the coup leaders as a legitimate authority.
