American aid worker abducted in Niger reunites with spouse, heading back to the United States – according to President Trump

US President Donald Trump has announced that Kevin Rideout, the American missionary held captive in Niger for over nine months, is set to return to the United States, following his recent release.

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Rideout's reunion with his wife Krista has been confirmed, with Trump taking to his Truth Social platform on Sunday to share the news of the former hostage's impending return home.

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In a post, Trump expressed his happiness at Rideout's release, stating that the former hostage is preparing to fly back to the US after being reunited with his wife Krista, whom Trump described as "beautiful".

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Trump also revealed that Rideout's release marks the "110th captive American liberated" since the beginning of his second term as President, a milestone he highlighted in his social media post.

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The US President extended an invitation to Rideout and his wife, saying "I look forward to seeing Kevin and Krista at the White House soon!", in a gesture of welcome and support.

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Kevin Rideout, a Christian missionary and pilot with SIM International, had been held captive for over nine months after being abducted outside his home in Niamey, Niger, in October 2025.

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According to SIM International, following his release, Rideout is in good health and currently in the care of US officials, who are providing him with the necessary support and assistance.

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Rideout's abduction occurred when three armed men took him from outside his home in Niamey and transported him to the Tillaberi region in western Niger, an area known to be affected by militant activity.

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The details surrounding Rideout's release, including the identity of his captors and the circumstances of his freedom, remain unclear at this time.

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Rideout had spent 19 years working in Niger and served as a pilot for SIM International, a Christian organisation that operates in more than 70 countries worldwide.