MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia said on Wednesday that it was closely watching events in Madagascar and hoped that bloodshed would be avoided after the military took power following weeks of youth-led protests.

The young people who toppled the government are now confronting questions about what’s next, and who will deliver on their demands.

B' ratings on watch with negative implications on Friday, citing political uncertainty that could undermine growth, delay fiscal consolidation efforts, and restrict access to external financing. "We think the political uncertainty will hinder policymaking and reform implementation in the near term,

A little-known army colonel became Madagascar’s president on Friday after a rapid power grab. He was sworn in as his country’s leader six days after launching a military coup.

The rise and fall of the DJ-turned-politician is dizzying even by the standards of this African island country

The country’s high levels of poverty coupled with youth discontent have made it a powder keg for political turmoil. Madagascar is one of the world’s poorest nations: Three-quarters of the country’s 32 million people live in poverty, and the average income is $600 annually.

The United Nations chief has condemned the military takeover in Madagascar as an army colonel who led the coup is set to be quickly sworn in as president three days after announcing soldiers had taken