Russia Claims It Helped Niger's Government Stop Coup Attempt

Russia says it helped Niger's military government stop a coup attempt.

In a popular video interview, Viktor Voropaïev, the Russian ambassador to Niger, said the Nigerien government asked for help to deal with the mutiny that happened between 28 and 29 August.

“The rebels who organised these demonstrations have been neutralised, particularly thanks to the intervention of Africa Corps military personnel from the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation,” Sahel Alert quoted Voropaïev as saying.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that some soldiers turned against their frontline duties to fight with presidential elite forces. Analysts say this was an attempt to remove the military junta in Niger.

The fighting caused interruptions to state broadcast services in Niger.

The mutineers attacked Diori Hamani International Airport and Air Base 101. They also tried to get into the presidential palace and other key areas around the airport.

According to analysts, the rebellious soldiers were upset about rising insecurity and poor treatment from the regime towards frontline troops.

After several hours of fighting, the mutineers were put down by a joint air-ground attack from Nigerien elite forces and the Russian-supported Africa Corps.

After this, the regime stated that it was still in charge. However, the head of the junta, Abdourahamane Tchiani, has not made any public appearance or statement.

By Sunday morning, videos of captured mutineers began appearing online, with reports that some of them were killed.

Since cutting ties with France, its former colonial ruler, Niger has turned to Russia as a key partner. Reports say about 300 Russian troops are currently in Niger.

Russia is growing its influence in Sahelian nations where military leaders have taken control.

In April, Russia helped the Malian government stop a possible severe jihadi attack in Bamako. Analysts believe its latest action in Niger will increase its popularity in Africa.

The Sahel region still faces terror attacks from groups linked to Islamic State and al-Qaeda.

Some analysts warned that the recent uprising in Niger could lead to more terror attacks, claiming that the positions left by the mutineers could be taken over by jihadists.

Many countries, including junta-led Mali and Burkina Faso, have shown support for Niger through the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).