Putin and Mali President Discuss Peaceful Resolution in Niger Coup

Russian President Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Mali's interim president, Assimi Goita, discussing the situation in Niger and emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution. This development raises concerns about Russia's increasing influence in the West African region. Putin's call comes after West African leaders ordered the deployment of a regional standby force to restore constitutional order in Niger following a coup d'etat. Mali has urged the UN and African Union to prevent military intervention in Niger, and there are indications of a potential partnership between the Niger junta and the Wagner mercenary group, which is active in Mali.