Niger mutiny puts Russia's expanding role in the Sahel to the test

Niger's military government contained an attempted mutiny that began on Saturday at Base 101 in Niamey, with fighting spreading to other sensitive sites. The government regained control after hours of fighting, with state media reporting dozens of casualties, though figures could not be independently verified. Russia's Africa Corps provided ground and aerial support at the request of Nigerien authorities. The mutiny, reportedly involving hundreds of soldiers, is the most serious internal challenge to General Abdourahamane Tiani's rule since his 2023 coup. The motives remain unclear, but analysts link it to frustration over worsening insecurity and heavy military losses in the fight against armed groups. The episode underscores Niger's post-coup shift from Western to Russian security partnerships, as French and US forces withdrew and Niger joined the Alliance of Sahel States. Algeria also provided military assistance, while the AES expressed support. The crisis highlights the reversal of Western influence and the practical value of Russia's growing role, though it does not resolve Niger's wider security crisis.