The threat of the use of force against a sovereign state will not contribute to a de-escalation or normalization of the situation in Niger, insisted Moscow calling for a national dialogue to find "a African solution to African problems”.

“We consider it extremely important to avoid a deterioration of the situation in the country. We believe that the launch of a national dialogue with a view to the return of civil peace and the rule of law is urgent, "said Wednesday, during a press briefing the spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs foreigners, Maria Zakharova.

"We believe that the threat of the use of force against a sovereign state will not contribute to a de-escalation or normalization of the situation," she insisted.

The diplomat, however, stressed that the events in Niger followed a peaceful scenario without casualties. She noted that the current crisis in Niger was unfolding in the context of the “complicated security situation as well as the extremely serious social and economic situation of the population of this State”.

“When looking for ways to resolve the conflict in Niger, we continue from the principle of an 'African solution to African problems'. We hope that vigorous mediation efforts will be undertaken by the African Union and sub-regional organizations to help Niger society emerge from the crisis. We hope that the people of Niger, to whom we are bound by long-standing relations of friendship and cooperation, will be able to overcome this difficult period in their history. We aspire to continue to develop our mutually beneficial bilateral ties in all aspects,” the spokesperson added.

On July 26, 2023, a group of Nigerien soldiers announced the dismissal of President Mohamed Bazoum, the closure of the country's borders, the establishment of a curfew, the suspension of the Constitution and the banning of party political activities.

On July 28, 2023, they announced that General Abdourahamane Tchiani, former head of the presidential guard, was now at the head of the country.

Since then, demonstrations have been held regularly in the country's capital to support the new authorities and protest against the presence of foreign troops on the territory of Niger. Last night the borders were reopened.

Source: Burkina Information Agency