Russia-backed Niger Forces retake Niamey military base after mutiny

Russian forces have reportedly helped Niger’s presidential guard retake a key military air base in the capital, Niamey, after the facility was seized by soldiers involved in a mutiny, according to diplomatic and security sources cited by AFP.

The confrontation reportedly erupted on Saturday after mutinous soldiers took control of the military facility, prompting a response from members of Niger’s presidential guard, who were backed by Russian personnel.

“The presidential guard has retaken control of the air base with the help of the Russians,” a diplomatic source told AFP.

The source said several soldiers involved in the mutiny were killed during the operation. Two security sources separately confirmed that the presidential guard had regained control of the base.

The incident comes amid renewed tensions within Niger’s military establishment and raises fresh questions about the stability of the country’s military-led government.

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It also underscores the increasingly prominent security role played by Russia in Niger following the military takeover that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in 2023.

Niger, along with neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, has strengthened its military and political ties with Moscow while reducing its reliance on traditional Western security partners, particularly France.

The latest clashes could further expose divisions within Niger’s security forces as the authorities seek to consolidate control over the country’s military institutions.

Details about what triggered the mutiny, the number of casualties and the precise role played by Russian personnel remained unclear as of Saturday.

Further information is expected to emerge as authorities assess the situation and investigate the circumstances surrounding the seizure and subsequent recapture of the air base.