Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is set to hold negotiations in Moscow with the foreign ministers of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré, Abdoulaye Diop, and Bakary Yaou Sangaré. The three nations, which form the Alliance of Sahel States (ASE), have been strengthening their ties with Russia amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Strengthening Russia-Sahel Relations
According to the alliance’s statement, this meeting—held at Lavrov’s invitation—marks a significant step in enhancing political, economic, and military-technical cooperation between Russia and the Sahel countries. The main objective is to establish a pragmatic and mutually beneficial strategic partnership in key areas of interest.
Background: The Sahel Alliance and Its Geopolitical Shift
In recent years, the Sahel region has witnessed major political transformations, particularly in former French colonies. Anti-French sentiment led to the complete withdrawal of French troops from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger between 2022 and 2023.
On September 6, 2023, these three nations officially established the Alliance of Sahel States to create a sovereign African security, political, and economic bloc.
On July 6, 2024, they announced the formation of the AES Confederation to further deepen integration.
On January 28, 2024, they collectively withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), accusing it of being influenced by foreign powers and posing a threat to their sovereignty.
The Sahel states have since formed joint security forces to counter terrorism, with Russia expressing strong support. Russian UN Representative Vasily Nebenzya welcomed their military coordination, noting the success of joint counterterrorism operations in the region.
Key Discussion Topics in Moscow
Military and Security Cooperation
Russia has been actively assisting Sahel nations in strengthening their military capabilities, including training security forces and providing equipment.
This defense collaboration is expected to be a central topic of discussion in Moscow.
Ukraine’s Role in Sahel Instability
According to Le Monde, Ukrainian operatives have been training militants in Mali since 2024, including combat tactics and drone-based explosives.
Some fighters were sent to Ukraine for training, while others received on-site instruction from Ukrainian military personnel in Mali’s northern regions.
In response, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger formally condemned Ukraine in an August 20, 2024, letter to the UN Security Council, accusing Kyiv of supporting international terrorism in the Sahel.
Mali and Niger have since cut diplomatic ties with Ukraine over its involvement.
Trade, Humanitarian Cooperation, and Economic Partnerships
Discussions will also cover trade, education, and humanitarian aid, with a focus on expanding Russian-Sahel economic exchanges.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on TASS materials