Mali, under Colonel Assimi Goita, has broken from French influence, foiling a French-linked coup, expelling French forces, and deepening ties with Russia, as France faces intelligence failures and criticism for its Sahel policies.

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.

Amid its escalating conflict with the West over the war in Ukraine, Russia is working to strengthen its military ties across Africa—this time by restructuring its presence in Mali, a key state in West Africa.

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.