The press release condemns the purported recognition of Somaliland, viewing it as a dangerous move that could escalate regional and global crises, and calls for a strong response from the UN Security Council, emphasizing China's moral responsibility given its stance on similar issues like Taiwan.
Niger's junta, which seized power in a military coup last month, has expressed openness to talks to resolve the regional crisis caused by the coup, while Russia and the United States have called for a peaceful resolution. Western powers and African governments have demanded the reinstatement of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, but the military leaders have rejected negotiations. West African army chiefs will meet to prepare for a possible military intervention if diplomacy fails. Any intervention could further destabilize the Sahel region, which is already plagued by insurgency and hunger crises. Russian President Vladimir Putin stressed the importance of a peaceful resolution, while the US expressed commitment to a diplomatic solution. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has threatened military intervention if diplomacy fails, and it has the support of Central Africa's regional bloc ECCAS. Russian influence in the region has grown, while Western influence has waned, with military leaders in Mali and Burkina Faso strengthening ties with Moscow.
Over 100,000 people have fled Sudan to neighbouring countries due to the ongoing conflict, with more than 330,000 displaced within the country. The conflict risks becoming a regional crisis as Sudan's neighbours struggle to cope with the influx of refugees and aid deliveries are hampered. The two warring factions have agreed in principle to a seven-day ceasefire from Thursday, but the credibility of the deal is unclear given previous violations. The UN warns that unless the fighting stops, the humanitarian impact will be massive.