The growing ties between the AES and Russia have reached a new stage. Meeting in Niamey, Niger, on July 8, 2026, the foreign ministers strengthened their cooperation framework. Security, the economy and investment are now at the heart of this strategic partnership. An alliance that could further reshape geopolitical balances in the Sahel.
In Niamey, Niger, Russia and the three countries of the Alliance of Sahel States have taken a further step in their cooperation. Meeting on July 8, 2026, the foreign ministers of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger adopted a consultation framework for 2026–2027. Cooperation now goes beyond the military sphere to encompass diplomacy, the economy and investment.
“This high-level political and diplomatic meeting is a perfect expression of our shared determination to work together towards the emergence of a fairer and more equitable Global North, founded on the values of peace, security and development, as well as respect for sovereignty and the fundamental principles of international law. This meeting gives us an opportunity to review the implementation of the decisions taken during the first consultations, but also to look ahead to future actions aimed at strengthening our strategic partnership.”
Bakary Yaou Sangaré, Minister of Foreign Affairs – Niger
The stakes are high for the AES, which represents nearly 83 million inhabitants, according to demographic estimates available for 2025. The three countries also form a vast area of nearly 2.8 million square kilometers. Since their effective withdrawal from ECOWAS on January 29, 2025, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have sought to consolidate their own cooperation mechanisms and diversify their international partners.
“This consultation session between the foreign ministers of the Confederation of Sahel States and the Russian Federation further strengthens the already special relations between the Confederation and Russia. We particularly appreciate the leadership of the Russian Federation and the objectivity of your analysis regarding the situation in Africa, and more specifically the situation in the Sahel.”
Abdoulaye Diop, Minister of Foreign Affairs – Mali
On security and economic fronts, closer ties between the AES and Russia are continuing in a context marked by the persistence of jihadist groups in the Sahel. Russia continues to provide military support to the three countries, despite attacks that continue to put their forces to the test. At the same time, cooperation is expanding into strategic resources, notably gold, uranium, lithium and hydrocarbons. In Mali, Russia is already involved in projects in gold, lithium and energy, including the construction of a gold refinery and discussions surrounding a nuclear power project.
“We are united by the understanding that there is a need to establish a fair multipolar world order and to work together against neocolonial practices, which remain very much alive. We expect cooperation between Russia and the AES to provide additional momentum for strengthening the sovereignty of our states and broadening our bilateral and multilateral relations.”
Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs – Russia
The closer Russia-AES ties therefore represent a major strategic realignment in the Sahel. For the three countries, the challenge will be to turn promises of sovereignty and diversification into tangible results: security, infrastructure, investment and jobs. For Russia, the objective is also to consolidate lasting influence in a strategic region. The next test will be economic, particularly at the Russia-Africa summit scheduled for October 2026.
