American Missionary Kevin Rideout Released After 9 Months' Captivity in Niger

Kevin Rideout, a 50-year-old American missionary pilot for SIM International, was released to US officials on August 14, 2026 after more than nine months in captivity following his October 21, 2025 kidnapping outside his home in Niamey, Niger. SIM International Director Phil Bauman confirmed Rideout was 'in good health in the care of US officials' and would soon be reunited with his wife, Krista. President Trump credited the release to administration diplomatic efforts, including assistance from eastern Libyan military commander Khalifa Haftar, and said Rideout marks roughly the 110th American captive freed since Trump's second term began.