Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, has expressed opposition to a military solution in the conflict in Niger Republic.
Putin has advised the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) against using military intervention to address the crisis following the coup d’etat that ousted former President Mohamed Bazoum.
The Russian Federation’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Alexei Shebarshin, responded to an inquiry by stating that Russia opposes a military solution and has no intention of deploying its armed forces in Niger. Shebarshin emphasized the need for the people of Niger to independently solve their problems in a constitutional manner, without resorting to force.
ECOWAS, during an emergency summit, demanded the reinstatement of Bazoum within a week, warning that it would take necessary actions to restore constitutional order if this demand is not met.
“Such measures may include the use of force for this effect,” it said in a statement.