Russia has warned that the deployment of the military by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to Niger Republic would last longer than projected.

“We believe that a military solution to the crisis in Niger could lead to a protracted confrontation in that African country and a sharp destabilisation of the situation in the Sahara-Sahel region as a whole”, the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement on Friday.

Supporters of the military junta had earlier called on Western nations to leave the country and voiced support for Russia.

Both France and the U.S. operate military bases in Niger, which have been used to launch operations against jihadist groups present in the wider region.

Military officials from Ecowas countries are reportedly set to meet on Saturday to draft plans for a military intervention.

The bloc has said it remains open to finding a diplomatic solution to the crisis, but Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu said on Thursday: “No option is taken off the table, including the use of force as a last resort.”

In a statement, U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken said: “The United States appreciates the determination of Ecowas to explore all options for the peaceful resolution of the crisis.”

Late last month, the military ousted the democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum in Niger and suspended the constitution in the country.

Fears are growing for the health and safety of Mr Bazoum, who has been held captive since the military seized power on July 26.

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, said on Friday: “Credible reports I have received indicate that the conditions of detention could amount to inhuman and degrading treatment, in violation of international human rights law.”