Russian military personnel assisted Nigerien forces in suppressing an attempted mutiny at a key military base in the capital, Niamey, Russia’s ambassador to Niger, Viktor Voropaïev, has said.
Voropaïev said the command of Air Base 101 requested assistance from Russian personnel after Nigerien soldiers attempted to seize control of the facility during clashes in Niamey.
According to the ambassador, Nigerien military commanders later visited the Russian Africa Corps base to express appreciation for the assistance provided in quelling the rebellion.
The attempted mutiny occurred between August 28 and 29, when a group of Nigerien soldiers reportedly tried to confine fellow troops at the military facility and opened fire at strategic locations in the capital.
Niger’s Defence Minister, General Salifou Mody, confirmed that soldiers had taken some troops hostage and attacked sensitive sites, but said security forces moved quickly to regain control.
The presidential guard, reportedly supported by Russian personnel, subsequently retook Air Base 101 from the mutineers. Some of the rebel soldiers were reportedly killed during the operation.
The incident further highlights Niger’s growing security partnership with Russia following the military takeover of 2023 and the withdrawal of Western military forces from the country.
Air Base 101, located within the Niamey international airport complex, also hosts personnel from Russia’s Africa Corps and serves as an important military installation for Niger and its Sahel allies.
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