US missionary kidnapped in Niger reunited with wife, returning home – Trump

American missionary Kevin Rideout has been released after more than nine months in captivity in Niger and is preparing to return home, according to U.S. President Donald Trump.

Trump confirmed Rideout's release on his Truth Social platform, stating that the former hostage had been reunited with his wife, Krista. "I am happy to reveal that former hostage Kevin Rideout is getting ready to fly home to the United States after having been reunited with his beautiful wife, Krista," Trump wrote.

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I am happy to reveal that former hostage Kevin Rideout is getting ready to fly home to the United States after having been reunited with his beautiful wife, Krista.

Rideout, a pilot with SIM International, a Christian organization, was abducted outside his home in Niamey, Niger, in October 2025. He had been working in Niger for 19 years. Following his release, Rideout was reported to be in good health and under the care of U.S. officials.

Details surrounding Rideout's release, including the identity of his captors and the specifics of his liberation, remain unclear. He was reportedly taken to the Tillaberi region in western Niger, an area known for militant activity. Trump noted that Rideout's release marked the "110th captive American liberated" during his tenure, adding, "I look forward to seeing Kevin and Krista at the White House soon!"

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I look forward to seeing Kevin and Krista at the White House soon!