Moscow Calls for Diplomatic Solution in Niger Amid Threats of Armed Intervention

Two weeks after Niger’s pro-Western leader was ousted in a military coup, some fellow West African states—but not all—are considering armed intervention. Meanwhile, concerns mount in Western capitals that the ongoing crisis in Niger could provide Russia with another toehold in the strategically vital region.

Nigeriens participate in a march called by supporters of coup leader Gen. Abdourahmane Tiani in Niamey, Niger, July 30, 2023. Sam Mednick/The Canadian Press/AP

Russia has reiterated calls for a diplomatic solution to the political crisis in Niger, where the West African country’s democratically elected, pro-Western leader was ousted last month in a military coup.

“We support mediation efforts by the African community to help Nigeriens find a solution to the current crisis,” Alexey Zaitsev, a spokesman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, said on Aug. 9.