On Saturday, Niger’s presidential guard—supported by Russian forces—successfully recaptured the strategic Air Force Base 101 in Niamey following an armed mutiny. The clashes erupted shortly after midnight when rebellious soldiers blocked access to the presidential palace and briefly disrupted the state broadcaster, Tele Sahel.

Defense Minister General Salifou Mody confirmed that the insurgency involved troops holding hostages at a local barracks and targeting sensitive sites across the capital. Heavy gunfire and explosions echoed near the international airport complex before security forces regained the upper hand. By Saturday evening, diplomatic and security sources verified that the presidential guard had reestablished control over the air base, resulting in the deaths of several mutineers, though some rebel troops reportedly retained positions in two outlying barracks.

Niger has been under military rule since General Abdourahamane Tiani seized power three years ago. The junta has faced ongoing challenges combating a decade-long insurgency involving rival jihadist factions, including the Islamic State in the Sahel and the Al-Qaeda-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims. In response to security shifts, the ruling regime has distanced itself from traditional Western allies like France and forged closer military ties with Russia. Meanwhile, neighboring Algeria condemned the unrest and pledged support for the Niamey government as authorities urged residents to remain calm.