Donald Trump: "Kevin, the United States of America looks forward to welcoming you HOME. Glad to…"

An American missionary seized in Niger has been freed after more than nine months in captivity, the Christian organization SIM International announced. Kevin Rideout, who flew planes for the group, was abducted near the presidential palace in Niamey on Oct. 21, 2025. SIM said he was transferred to U.S. officials, is healthy, and will soon be reunited with his wife and children. President Donald Trump acknowledged the release Friday on Truth Social, saying Rideout was taken by what Trump described as “Jihadi terrorists” and is back in American custody. Trump’s note welcomed Rideout home and credited U.S. assistance. The release occurs amid heightened extremist activity in Niger since a 2023 coup led the country to expel Western troops.