Russia expands Sahel security role as Western ties weaken

Russia’s growing military cooperation with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) marks a further shift in West Africa’s security landscape, as Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger deepen ties with Moscow, according to Reuters and Africanews. This follows the decline of Western partnerships, as reported by Maghrebi Week on July 27th.

The agreement, announced during Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov’s meeting with AES officials in Niamey, focuses on strengthening defence cooperation- as the three countries continue to face persistent jihadist violence and regional instability.

The partnership reflects Moscow’s expanding influence in the Sahel. However, questions remain over whether increased military support can address the deeper governance, economic and security challenges driving conflict across the region.

Maghrebi.org, Maghrebi Week