Russia says it helped repel attempted coup in Niger
An armed coup attempt involving a group of soldiers was thwarted in Niger on Saturday, and Russia has said it helped repel it. Commercial life in the capital Niamey was reported returning to normal by Sunday.
The Alliance of Sahel States, grouping Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, described the incident as a betrayal by a group of soldiers attempting to destabilise the country. Authorities have not disclosed how many troops were involved or whether there were any casualties. Niger's military leader, Gen Tiani, who took over the presidency last year after ousting the elected government, has not commented publicly on the events.
State television aired footage showing the Presidential Guard detaining several alleged mutineers. By Sunday, Niger's state news agency reported that businesses including petrol stations and shops were reopening as normal activity resumed. Government supporters gathered in a central square in Niamey to show backing for the security forces and Tiani's administration.
The unrest began at Air Base 101, part of the Diori Hamani airport complex, which houses Nigerien military aircraft and drones along with a counter-terrorism unit of the Alliance of Sahel States. According to Reuters, Russian and Italian forces are also stationed at the base.
Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso are all under military rule and have distanced themselves from Western allies while deepening ties with Russia. Despite this realignment, jihadist violence continues to affect all three nations.
For Niger's leadership, Saturday's mutiny underscores that the military faces not only an external insurgent threat but also signs of internal discontent. The base where the mutiny broke out had already been attacked twice this year by jihadist groups — once by an Islamic State affiliate and once by one linked to al-Qaeda. Authorities say security patrols have since been stepped up at key locations across Niamey, including the airport's main entrance and the presidential compound.
