What to know about the coup attempt orchestrated this Saturday in Niger

On August 29, 2026, the Nigerien Armed Forces (FAN) experienced a mutiny that began with clashes near base 101 and an unsuccessful attempt to storm the presidential palace. Initial gunfire was reported around 1 AM, and the mutineers attempted to infiltrate the palace before being repelled by the presidential guard. By midday, the insurgents managed to seize a portion of base 101, which houses military drones and Russian soldiers.