The Sahel states and Russia are deepening their strategic partnership, with a particular focus on military cooperation, built on shared interests to confront mounting security challenges and to shape an alliance independent of former colonial powers.

In a move that underscores the fragility of regional blocs in Africa, Rwanda has announced its withdrawal from ECCAS following the bloc’s 26th summit held in Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea.

The United Arab Emirates is stepping up its strategic presence in West Africa, with its latest moves focusing on the Alliance of the Sahel States, which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

Algeria is facing a new diplomatic crisis with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, raising questions about how the situation will unfold and whether Morocco could capitalize on the opportunity amid ongoing tensions between Rabat and Algiers.

After previously announcing their withdrawal from ECOWAS, accusing the bloc of straying from its founding ideals—Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso officially exited the organization following more than a year of intense diplomatic tensions.