Russia says it helped to repel Niger attempted coup

Russia's African Corps has become a key security partner for multiple military governments in the Sahel, who have been struggling to contain long-running jihadist insurgencies.

Nigerien authorities say security forces have increased patrols around key sites in Niamey following the attempted takeover, including the main airport entrance and the presidential pavilion.

Explosions and gunfire rang out across capital, Niamey, early in the morning, including at a key military airbase and the presidential palace.