Russia Reaffirms Military Support for Sahel Alliance During High-Level Meeting in Niger

Russia has pledged to continue providing military assistance to the military-led governments of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, deepening its ties with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) as the three countries increasingly distance themselves from Western partners.

The commitment was announced on Wednesday during a visit by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to Niger’s capital, Niamey, where he held high-level talks with the foreign ministers of the three Sahel nations.

In a joint statement issued after the meeting, Russia and the Alliance of Sahel States said Moscow would “continue its support for strengthening the operational capacities of AES member states’ armed forces.”

Russia Strengthens Partnership with Sahel States

The meeting in Niamey follows a similar gathering held in Moscow in April 2025 and highlights Russia’s growing influence in West Africa.

The Alliance of Sahel States, formed by Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, was created after the three countries withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following disagreements over military rule and sanctions.

The three nations are currently governed by military administrations that seized power through coups between 2020 and 2023.

Shift Away from Western Allies

Following their respective coups, the three governments significantly reduced their cooperation with former colonial power France and sought closer political and security ties with Russia.

The military leaders have accused Western nations of failing to adequately address growing security threats in the region, particularly the spread of extremist violence.

Russia, in turn, has positioned itself as a strategic partner by offering military assistance and security cooperation.

Fight Against Jihadist Insurgencies

The Sahel region has faced years of instability due to attacks by jihadist groups linked to both al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group.

The violence has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions of people across the region.

Russian-backed security forces, including personnel from the Africa Corps, have been assisting the AES countries in their fight against armed extremist groups.

The military governments argue that stronger security cooperation with Moscow is essential to restoring stability and regaining control of territories affected by insurgent violence.

Expanding Economic Cooperation

Beyond military cooperation, Russia is also seeking to deepen its partnerships with the three Sahel countries in other strategic sectors.

Discussions during Lavrov’s visit reportedly included opportunities for cooperation in energy, mining and natural resource development.

The growing relationship reflects Moscow’s broader efforts to expand its political and economic influence across Africa, particularly in countries that have become increasingly critical of Western involvement in the region.

As the geopolitical landscape in West Africa continues to shift, the strengthening alliance between Russia and the Sahel states is expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping the region’s future security and economic policies.