Niger: Russian forces helped contain attempted coup, reports say
Russian military personnel from the Africa Corps played a key role in helping Niger’s junta suppress an attempted mutiny in the capital, Niamey, according to Russian and international sources.
The mutiny began early on August 29, when soldiers attacked Air Base 101 at Diori Hamani International Airport, while gunfire was also reported near the presidential palace and state broadcaster. The attackers briefly took control of parts of the airport complex.
Niger’s government later said the situation was under control. Russia’s ambassador to Niger, Viktor Voropaev, confirmed that Africa Corps personnel were requested to assist in suppressing the mutiny. Russia’s Foreign Ministry also said the attacks were repelled by Nigerien forces with the support of Africa Corps personnel.
French newspaper Le Monde, citing sources familiar with the operation, reported that around 200 Russian Africa Corps personnel participated in the operation to retake the airbase alongside Niger’s presidential guard. The report described the Russian contribution as decisive in helping government forces regain the facility.
The episode has therefore raised questions about how dependent Niger’s military government has become on Russia for its own security. General Abdourahamane Tiani came to power in the July 2023 coup after promising to improve security and restore sovereignty. Since then, Niger has pushed out French forces and deepened military cooperation with Moscow.
But the attempted mutiny also exposes a contradiction for the junta. Despite its closer relationship with Russia and increased military spending, Niger continues to face deadly attacks from al-Qaeda- and Islamic State-linked armed groups, while discontent reportedly persists among sections of the military over casualties and security conditions.
The Russian intervention could consequently strengthen Moscow’s influence in Niger while simultaneously raising questions about the capacity of Niger’s own security institutions.
The immediate crisis appears to have been contained, but the attempted coup highlights growing tensions within Niger’s military and the increasingly important role Russia plays in protecting the country’s military leadership.
