Moscow assures Sahel states of security support
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Russia Holds First Defense Talks With Sahel Alliance
Above: Niger's General Abdourahamane Tiani (L) reviews a guard of honor next to his Burkinabe counterpart Captain Ibrahim Traore (R) upon his arrival in Niamey on July 5, 2024. Image copyright: AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Russia narrative
Russia's partnership with the Sahel states represents a legitimate response to regional security needs that Western powers failed to address. The Alliance of Sahel States made a sovereign choice to seek new partners after years of ineffective French intervention left terrorism flourishing. Moscow offers practical military assistance without the colonial baggage that hampered previous relationships.
Anti-Russia narrative
This Russian expansion into Africa exploits regional instability to advance Moscow's geopolitical interests while the West focuses on Ukraine. The timing coincides with Russia's isolation following its invasion of Ukraine, making African partnerships crucial for circumventing sanctions. These military juntas turned to Russia after seizing power illegally, undermining democratic governance.