Russian President Vladimir Putin and Mali's interim leader Assimi Goïta have called for a political settlement in Niger, where President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted in July.

In a phone call on Sunday, the two leaders said the Niger crisis should be resolved “through political and diplomatic means”, the Kremlin said in a statement.

Mr Putin and Mr Goïta also discussed bilateral relations, including talks on “anti-terror” operations, the statement said.

The Russian leader had in August also emphasised the need for a peaceful solution in Niger.

West Africa's regional bloc, Ecowas, has threatened military intervention to restore Mr Bazoum to power.

The juntas in Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea have warned against military intervention in Niger.