**Russia is Main Partner Against Terrorism – Niger**
Niger's Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangare emphasized on Wednesday that Russia is the primary ally of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in the fight against terrorism. His remarks were made during the second ministerial meeting between Russia and the AES held in Niamey, the capital of Niger.
Sangare expressed satisfaction with the progress made under previous agreements, particularly in the defense sector. He noted that various accords have significantly enhanced the military capabilities of the AES member states in their ongoing battle against terrorism, which has plagued the Sahel region.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who attended the meeting, echoed Sangare’s sentiments, stating that both Russia and the AES share a mutual vision for a multipolar world order. Lavrov criticized what he termed "neo-colonial practices" imposed by Western nations, reinforcing the idea that the AES is moving towards greater regional integration and the establishment of a new security framework.
During his address, Lavrov highlighted Russia's commitment to strengthening its diplomatic presence in the region, noting the recent opening of a Russian embassy in Niger. This development signifies Russia's intention to deepen its engagement with the AES and enhance collaborative efforts in various sectors, including defense.
Furthermore, Lavrov announced that the upcoming third Russia-Africa Summit will take place in Moscow, where Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended invitations to the leaders of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. This summit is expected to further solidify Russia’s ties with the AES and expand discussions on cooperation across multiple domains.
The AES was formed in 2023 by the governments of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, in response to a series of coups that have reshaped the political landscape of the Sahel. The military-led governments of these nations have distanced themselves from France, their former colonial power, accusing it of failing to adequately address the escalating jihadist violence in the region. In contrast, they have sought to bolster security partnerships with Russia.
In April, Russian military instructors and personnel from the Africa Corps, a unit of the Russian Defense Ministry, provided critical air support to Malian forces. This assistance was pivotal in thwarting militant attempts to seize strategic locations, including the presidential palace in Bamako, according to official reports.
In addition to defense cooperation, AES member states are exploring broader collaboration with Russia, particularly in the field of civil nuclear energy. In February, Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traore revealed that a memorandum of understanding with Russia's Rosatom was in effect, with Burkinabe students already undergoing training in Russia.
Lavrov's visit to Niger marks his first official trip to the country, and it is part of a broader tour of Africa that commenced in Ethiopia. This tour underscores Russia's growing interest in strengthening ties with African nations and enhancing its influence in the region.
The developments in the Sahel, particularly the increasing partnership between the AES and Russia, reflect a significant shift in regional security dynamics and highlight the ongoing challenges posed by terrorism in the area. As the AES continues to seek effective strategies to combat these threats, its collaboration with Russia is likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future security landscape of the Sahel.