The director of the Africa Programme at Chatham House explains what brought it on and how Wagner is involved
Armed troops in Niger have overthrown the government, detained the elected president and seized power.
Government headquarters were destroyed and there was an attempted attack on the French embassy.
At first the troops were met with pro-democracy demonstrations but soon individuals gathered to show their support for the new military junta, some waving Russian flags.
The junta leaders defied an ultimatum from neighbouring countries to relinquish power, closing the country’s airspace.