Russia says it helped to repel Niger attempted coup

Russia claimed on Sunday that its forces aided in thwarting an attempted coup in Niger on Saturday. The capital, Niamey, experienced explosions and gunfire, particularly at a crucial military airbase and the presidential palace. Subsequently, Niger's authorities confirmed the rebellion had been subdued. The Russian foreign ministry stated that the African Corps of the Russian Ministry of Defence assisted Nigerien forces in repelling the attack.

Moscow further indicated it would continue supporting Niger in its battle against extremists, but emphasized the situation was now under the control of the legitimate authorities led by President [Gen Abdourahmane] Tiani.

The Alliance of Sahel States, comprising Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, characterized the attempted coup as a betrayal by soldiers involved in destabilization efforts. Specific numbers of soldiers involved or casualties remain undisclosed by Niger's authorities. Gen Tiani, the nation's military president since last year, has not publicly addressed the incident. State media broadcast footage of alleged mutineers being apprehended by the Presidential Guard.

On Sunday, Niger Press Agency reported a return to normal commercial activity, with petrol stations, shops, and other businesses reopening. Supporters of the government congregated at a public square in Niamey to show support for security forces and President Tiani. Air Base 101, attacked on Saturday, is part of the Diori Hamani airport complex, which houses Nigerien military aircraft, drones, and an Alliance of Sahel States counter-terrorism unit. Russian and Italian forces are stationed there, per Reuters.

Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso are all military-ruled countries that have severed ties with Western partners and bolstered their cooperation with Russia. However, jihadist violence persists widely across these nations, despite the shift in alliances. For Niger's government, Saturday's mutiny underscores the challenge of addressing not only external insurgencies but also internal dissent.

Following the attempted takeover, authorities have intensified patrols around key sites in Niamey, including the main airport entrance and presidential pavilion.