Niger accuses France of orchestrating failed military mutiny at Niamey base

Niger’s military government has accused France and foreign interests of orchestrating a late-August mutiny at Base 101 in Niamey, alleging that soldiers sought to seize key facilities, including the airport, presidential palace and state broadcaster. The junta has described the participants as traitors and said the operation was directed by Emmanuel Macron, but it has not provided public evidence linking France to the unrest. France has rejected the accusation as “pure fantasy,” saying it had neither the intention nor the means to support the mutiny. Nigerien forces, aided by Russia-linked Africa Corps personnel, reportedly regained control of the facilities after fighting that killed and led to the arrest of dozens of soldiers. The episode has intensified tensions between Niger and its former colonial power while raising concerns about divisions within Niger’s armed forces and the growing role of the presidential guard and Russian security partners.