Russia is increasingly expanding its geopolitical footprint in Africa by solidifying strategic alliances with the military-led governments of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso—collectively known as the Alliance of Sahelian States (AES).
This growing partnership marks a significant shift in regional power dynamics, as Moscow seeks both political influence and access to Africa’s vast mineral wealth.
According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), the Russian Federation is actively enhancing its ties with the AES bloc, which emerged following coups in the three countries between 2021 and 2023.
These military juntas have distanced themselves from traditional Western allies, particularly France and the United States, and turned increasingly toward Russia for military, economic, and diplomatic support.
This strategic realignment was further formalized during the AES summit held in Moscow on April 3, 2025. The high-level meeting resulted in a historic agreement between Russia and the three Sahelian nations to establish a long-term strategic partnership.
Key components of the agreement include Russia’s support for the newly formed AES joint military force and its recognition as the first foreign power to officially endorse the alliance’s military structure, which was established on July 6, 2024.
The implications of this partnership extend beyond mere military cooperation. The Sahel region is rich in untapped reserves of gold, uranium, lithium, and other valuable minerals.
Analysts suggest that Russia’s deepening engagement offers it privileged access to these resources, which could bolster its global economic and strategic standing amid ongoing tensions with the West.
While Moscow presents this collaboration as mutually beneficial and aimed at regional stability and development, critics warn that the embrace of authoritarian regimes and the pursuit of resource extraction could exacerbate existing instability in the region.
Human rights organizations and international observers have raised concerns over the AES governments’ track records on democratic governance, civil liberties, and transparency.
Nevertheless, for the embattled regimes of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso—each facing ongoing insurgencies and internal political pressure—the alliance with Russia represents both a lifeline and a counterbalance to Western influence.
Russia’s deepening ties with the AES could mark the beginning of a new era in African geopolitics, one where Moscow plays an increasingly central role in shaping the security and economic future of the Sahel.
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