US continues security cooperation with Sahel military regimes
Despite years of strained relations, the United States is maintaining its security collaboration with the military authorities of the three nations that form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. This stance was confirmed by General John Brennan, Deputy Commander of US Africa Command (Africom).
Washington’s pragmatic approach in the fight against terrorism
General John Brennan emphasized that Washington is still collaborating, stating, “We continue to work with them. We have even shared intelligence to target key terrorist cells, though the situation has shifted dramatically compared to two or three years ago.”
He further explained, “We’re trying to reassure them of our commitment to assist, but competing actors are spreading misinformation about our intentions. Our goal is to counter these narratives.”
While this pragmatic stance aligns with Washington’s counterterrorism objectives, it raises questions about the consistency of US policy toward regimes that came to power through coups.
Beyond terror: US strategic interests in the Sahel
Abdoulmoumouni Abbas, a researcher specializing in radicalization prevention and violent extremism in the Sahel and Lake Chad regions, argues that America’s involvement extends far beyond terrorism. “The US has significant interests in the area, including combating drug trafficking, transnational crime, terrorism, and migration issues—especially organized cross-border crime,” he notes.
In recent months, the US military has increased intelligence-sharing and material support to Nigeria as part of efforts to track Islamic State-affiliated jihadists.
Brennan also clarified that Washington is not seeking to replace its military bases in Niger, despite the forced withdrawal of American troops by the local junta—a move aimed at easing regional concerns.
Key takeaways:
- US maintains security ties with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger despite political tensions.
- General Brennan highlights intelligence-sharing to combat terrorism but acknowledges challenges from misinformation campaigns.
- Washington’s interests span drug trafficking, crime, terrorism, and migration, not just militancy.
- US reassures regional public opinion by not replacing military bases in Niger.
