The Bottom Line Upfront
Russia has been taking advantage of the power vacuum left by Western countries in the Sahel region of Africa, particularly in Niger. This shift towards Russian military assistance and away from traditional allies like the US and France is reshaping the balance of power and stability in West Africa.
The Breakdown
The increasing influence of Russia and China in the Sahel raises concerns about the long-term stability of the region and the management of local resources. The shift away from Western alliances may not address the underlying issues that have led to extremism and instability in the Sahel.
Russia and China have been offering support to Sahel countries without the stringent conditions imposed by Western powers, but their involvement may not solve the core problems of armed group proliferation, government corruption, and poverty. The transition from Western to Eastern alliances in the Sahel could lead to continued unrest and strategic realignment.
