"Putin Emphasizes Peaceful Resolution in Talks with Mali and Russia on Niger"

Mali's military leader, Assimi Goita, spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the situation in Niger following a coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Putin emphasized the importance of a peaceful resolution for stability in the Sahel region. Western governments are concerned about growing Russian influence in the area, which is strategically significant due to its resources and role in the fight against armed groups. Western powers and African governments have called for the reinstatement of Bazoum, but the coup leaders have refused. West African army chiefs will meet to discuss a possible military intervention if diplomacy fails. Russian influence has increased in the Sahel, while the West's has declined.