US urges peaceful transition of power in Burkina Faso

The US Friday called for a "peaceful" transition of power in Burkina Faso, but refused to label the military's take-over as a coup.

"We underscored our commitment to peaceful transitions of power, through democratic elections, and emphasise neither side should attempt to change the situation through extra constitutional means, " Xinhua quoted State Department spokesperson Jennifer Psaki as saying at a daily press briefing.

She refused to call the military's seizure of power in the West African country a coup, saying "We look at every situation and make sure we make an evaluation based on the circumstances on the ground."

She also said Washington has been in touch with senior officials in Burkina Faso, including with President Blaise Compaore, who resigned Friday.

Burkina Faso's army seized power Thursday after protests broke out in the capital Ouagadougou in response to Compaore's attempt to extend his 27-year rule.

The army dissolved parliament and the government and suspended the constitution, announcing the establishment of a transitional body to govern the country.