July 30th, 2023.
Russian President Putin is prepared to give weapons away for free to an African nation amid ongoing tensions in Niger, said Burkina Faso's interim president.
According to Burkina Faso's interim president, Ibrahim Traore, Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to provide weapons free of charge to an African nation during the ongoing tensions in Niger.
In a conversation with Sputnik Africa on Monday, Traore discussed the support received from Russia, emphasising that Putin was extremely generous and offered unrestricted assistance in supplying the necessary weaponry to combat terrorism in the African nation.
Putin's office issued a statement following a meeting with Traore ear;ier this month during the Russia-Africa summit in St.Petersburg, "Bilateral ties between Russia and Burkina Faso have traditionally been friendly. Last year we celebrated the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations. We know that people in Burkina Faso treat Russia with sympathy and interest."
"We are ready to work together to develop trade and economic cooperation. Our trade is not extensive yet, even in terms of Russia-Africa relations, but I believe we will discuss it today: there is room to grow," the statement added.
Traore's remarks come at a time of heightened tensions in neighbouring Niger. The situation was triggered by the overthrow of democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum by soldiers, resulting in General Abdourahmane Tchiani assuming control of the country.
The military coup was met with widespread condemnation from several nations, including the United States and the United Nations Security Council.