Niger Military Government Survives Mutiny as Russian Forces Help Retake Key Airbase

NIAMEY — Niger’s military government has survived a serious internal security crisis after mutinous soldiers attacked important government and military locations in the capital, Niamey.

The attempted mutiny targeted areas around the airport and the presidential palace and represented one of the most serious challenges to the military government since the 2023 coup.

Niger’s authorities later regained control of the affected military facilities.

Russia’s Africa Corps reportedly assisted government forces during the operation to retake the strategic airbase. The development further highlights Moscow’s growing security relationship with Niger’s military government.

The incident also exposes the pressure facing Niger’s military. The country continues to battle armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State, while soldiers have faced difficult security conditions.

The crisis could have wider consequences for the Sahel because Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso have increasingly moved away from traditional Western security partnerships.