Kevin Rideout released after nine months of captivity in Niger

American missionary and pilot Kevin Rideout has been released after more than nine months in captivity in Niger. Rideout, who has worked in the country for 19 years with the organization SIM International, was abducted from his home in Niamey in October 2025 by armed men.

President Donald Trump confirmed the release via Truth Social, stating that Rideout has been reunited with his wife, Krista, and is preparing to return to the United States. Trump noted that this release marks the “110th captive American liberated” during his second term. SIM International reported that Rideout is in good health and currently under the care of U.S. officials.

While specific details regarding the identity of the captors and the exact terms of the release have not been officially disclosed, some reports suggest that Libyan military commander Khalifa Haftar may have been involved in brokering a deal. The abduction occurred in a region of Niger increasingly affected by militant activity linked to Islamic State groups.