Alliance of Sahel States (AES)
Formed in 2023 by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) represents a breakaway military alliance rejecting Western counterterrorism models in favor of Russian and Wagner Group-backed security frameworks. The AES emerged after a series of military coups severed traditional defense ties with the U.S. and France, positioning the alliance as a new security actor in the fight against jihadist insurgencies in the Sahel. Whether the AES becomes a viable defense coalition or collapses under regional instability remains to be seen.
History
- Military Coups and Political Shifts (2020–2023): Military governments took control in Mali (2020, 2021), Burkina Faso (2022), and Niger (2023), leading to strained ties with ECOWAS, France, and Western allies.
- Departure from ECOWAS (2023–2024): In January 2024, all three countries withdrew from ECOWAS, citing the bloc’s sanctions and pressure for a return to civilian rule.
- Formation of AES (September 2023): The Liptako-Gourma Charter officially established the AES, pledging mutual defense and political cooperation.
Major Characteristics, Initiatives, and Important Facts
- Member States: 🇲🇱 Mali, 🇧🇫 Burkina Faso, 🇳🇪 Niger.
- Mutual Defense Clause: Similar to Article 5 of NATO, an attack on one AES member is considered an attack on all.
- Counterterrorism Coordination: Focuses on combating jihadist insurgencies in the Sahel region, particularly against ISIS and al-Qaeda-affiliated groups.
- Break from France and ECOWAS: All three states expelled French troops, shifting toward Russia and Wagner Group security cooperation.
- Security and Military Alliances: Strengthens ties with Russia, Turkey, and other non-Western actors for military assistance.
- Strategic Shift in West Africa: AES represents an alternative to Western-backed security initiatives, potentially reshaping the region’s geopolitical landscape.
Links
- AES Official Charter (Liptako-Gourma Charter)
- AES and ECOWAS Relations
- Geopolitical Impact of the AES