Italy dismisses Russia's involvement in Niger coup as Joe Biden urges Bazoum release

In a surprising twist of events, the Italian government has brushed aside any suspicions of Moscow's involvement in the recent military coup in Niger. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani set the record straight in an interview with La Repubblica, asserting that there is no evidence to suggest Russia's hand in the political turmoil that has gripped the West African nation.

"We have no information of Russia’s involvement in the Nigerien events, or the preparation of the coup," he told the outlet.

“Many, perhaps all in Europe, have been taken by surprise” by the coup, he said. “Nobody knew about it, neither the US nor France.” 

Tajani's remarks unveiled a certain level of astonishment shared by both the United States and France, who found themselves caught off guard by the sudden turn of events in Niger. The coup, which unfolded last Wednesday, was a shock to the global community.

Russia has condemned the coup as well

Russia, too, has unequivocally condemned the coup, labeling it a violation of Niger's constitution and urging restraint on all sides. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a regional bloc backed by Western powers, has taken a stern stance by imposing sanctions on the junta responsible for the coup and even hinting at the possibility of military intervention to reinstate the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden on Thursday, August 3, called for the 'immediate release' of Bazoum, 63, who has been detained in the Nigerian Capital of Niamey by the country's Presidential Guards.

Addressing the speculation surrounding Russia's role, Tajani dismissed any notions of Moscow playing a covert game in the Sahel nation. The sight of Nigerien protesters brandishing photographs of Russian President Vladimir Putin, he suggested, seemed more motivated by anti-French sentiments than any genuine Russian involvement.

Italy's troops will remain in Niger

Remarkably, the coup seems to have caught many European powers off guard, including the US and France, both of whom boast a significant military presence in Niger, including troops and drone bases for counter-terrorism operations. The Italian contingent, numbering around 350 soldiers, has opted to remain within their barracks during this tumultuous period, according to Tajani.

Tajani also shed light on the surprising predicament of Nigerien authorities, revealing that Prime Minister Uhumudu Mahamadou was attending a UN food summit in Rome when the crisis unfolded back home. As discussions shifted to the broader Russian presence in the region, Tajani acknowledged the alleged presence of Wagner Group members but underscored that it is a separate issue.

He noted that Russia has adroitly cultivated a foothold in the region over the years, emphasizing that Italy remains committed to peaceful solutions rather than advocating for European military intervention. He also added that his French counterpart Catherine Colonna hasn't discussed the topic of intervention with him. 

In a climate of uncertainty, Italy's stance champions diplomatic efforts to restore democracy in Niger. Amid the geopolitical chessboard, the world watches as these developments unfold, wondering what the next move will be in the complex puzzle of global politics.