sahel Security Deteriorates as Russian Influence Expands Following French Withdrawal
BAMAKO, Mali – A deepening security crisis is gripping the Sahel region of Africa following the withdrawal of French forces and a corresponding increase in the presence of Russian mercenaries, raising fears of escalating instability and the spread of radical Islam. Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger – all under military rule - have increasingly distanced themselves from Western partners, culminating in their collective departure from the Economic Community of West african States (ECOWAS) in January.
The shift comes as the Wagner Group, and now its successor Africa Corps, expands its footprint across the Sahel, despite documented accusations of human rights violations. In Mali, reports indicate these paramilitaries prioritize protecting gold mines over actively confronting ongoing sieges, fueling concerns about their true objectives.
This security vacuum follows years of French military engagement, most recently through Operation Barkhane, aimed at combating jihadist groups. However, the withdrawal has coincided with a surge in anti-Western sentiment, exemplified by burkinabe head of state’s call for African nations to “stop behaving like puppets every time the imperialists pull the strings.” Experts warn this rhetoric risks simply replacing one external influence with another.
Neighboring countries, including Benin, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Togo, and ghana, are increasingly worried about the southward progression of radical Islamist groups. The Financial Times reports the West must provide intelligence, training, and military cooperation to these nations at their request.
While Europe’s interest in the sahel has waned,analysts argue ignoring the region’s instability is no longer an option. Potential responses include strengthening efforts to counter Russian disinformation campaigns targeting young people and increasing European Central Bank investment in Sahelian reconstruction and advancement, with a focus on job creation as a deterrent to radicalization.
Ultimately, lasting stability hinges on the formation of effective governance within the Sahelian states themselves. However, Western nations are urged to support these efforts to prevent further deterioration of the security situation and mitigate the risk of regional spillover. The situation underscores a growing trend of Russian interference and the challenges of countering terrorism in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
