The European Union called on Monday for the release of Sudan's civilian leaders, insisting that "violence and bloodshed must be avoided" after a reported military coup.

"The EU is very concerned about Sudan's military forces reportedly putting Prime Minister (Abdalla) Hamdok under house arrest, as well as detaining other members of the civilian leadership, and we urge for their fast release," European Commission spokeswoman Nabila Massrali told journalists.