Niger has cut diplomatic relations with Ukraine.

Niger's military government said it made the move in "solidarity" with neighbouring Mali, who cut their own relations with Ukraine two days ago.

Both countries cited comments by a Ukrainian military official, who suggested Ukraine played a role in the killing of dozens of Malian soldiers last month.

Mali's neighbour Senegal also rebuked Ukraine.

Ukraine's foreign ministry has not yet commented on Niger's decision to cut diplomatic relations but it, however, called Mali's decision "short-sighted and hasty".