Russian paramilitary forces help Niger's junta regain control after mutiny

Niger’s capital of Niamey on Sunday appeared calm with normalcy restored after a day of unrest as young soldiers staged a mutiny that threatened the ruling military junta before being repelled by loyalist forces aided by Russian troops. In what was seen as a major threat to the junta in power since a 2023 coup, the soldiers engaged loyalist forces in sustained gunfire overnight from Friday till late Saturday. Most of the clashes took place at Niamey’s main airport that houses the military air base and in a district where the presidential palace is located. The unrest culminated in the arrest or killing of dozens of soldiers who were paraded in front of the cameras live on state television. The fate of the mutineers was not immediately clear and authorities did not disclose any charges against them. Watch moreNiger's junta says 'regaining control' after clashes in capital On Sunday, military trucks and check points were seen across the city, particularly along major roads between the airport and the presidential district. Junta leader Abdourahamane Tchiani was yet to make any public comments or appearance. Here’s what we know about the mutiny, according to witnesses, analysts and di...