In a significant realignment of West Africa’s diplomatic and security landscape, the foreign ministers of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are set to visit Moscow on April 3-4 to strengthen strategic ties with Russia.
This visit marks the first AES-Russia consultations since the formation of the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) in 2024, signaling a major shift away from traditional alliances with France and ECOWAS. The three West African nations, all under military-led governments following coups between 2020 and 2023, are turning to Moscow for political and military backing as they battle ongoing insurgencies.
A Shift in Alliances
The decision to deepen relations with Russia comes as the Sahel region faces relentless jihadist attacks, which have devastated communities and claimed thousands of lives. With their exit from ECOWAS and other international bodies, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have sought alternative partnerships to strengthen their security and economic resilience.
Under the AES Year 1 Roadmap, chaired by Mali, the three nations will meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to discuss expanded cooperation in defense, security, and economic development. The AES has described the visit as a “crucial step” in advancing its collective goals.
Russia’s Expanding Influence in the Sahel
Russia has already been supplying military aid to the AES nations, primarily through the Wagner Group, which has played a key role in their counterterrorism efforts. In addition to defense agreements, collaborations in the energy and mining sectors have also intensified.
The visit comes shortly after the AES bloc announced the formation of a joint 5,000-strong military force, aimed at tackling terrorism without Western involvement.
By strengthening ties with Russia, the Sahel states are not only reinforcing their security but also asserting greater autonomy from Western influence, positioning Moscow as a key ally in their regional strategy.
Amnewsworld will continue to monitor developments on this high-level visit.
