Russia has claimed its forces helped to repel an attempted coup in Niger on Saturday. The Russian Ministry of Defence's African Corps assisted Nigerien forces in containing the rebellion, according to Moscow's foreign ministry.
Explosions and gunfire were heard across the capital, Niamey, early on Saturday morning, with targets including a key military airbase and the presidential palace. Nigerien authorities later stated the attack had been repelled.
The Russian foreign ministry also affirmed its continued support for Niger in its fight against "extremists," adding that the situation was under the control of the legitimate authorities led by President Gen Abdourahmane Tiani. The African Corps is described as a key security partner for several military governments in the Sahel region.
The Alliance of Sahel States, comprising Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, characterised the attempted coup as "a betrayal by a group of soldiers involved in an attempt at destabilisation." Authorities have not disclosed the number of soldiers involved or any casualties.
Commercial activity in Niamey was reportedly returning to normal on Sunday, with petrol stations and shops reopening. Security forces have increased patrols around key sites in the capital following the incident.