The United States is continuing its security cooperation with the military-led governments of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—despite years of strained relations. This stance was confirmed by General John Brennan, Deputy Commander of US Africa Command (AFRICOM).
In a recent statement, Brennan acknowledged ongoing collaboration, including intelligence sharing to target terrorist groups. However, he highlighted a shift from past dynamics: “Our engagement persists. We’ve even shared intelligence with some of these governments to strike high-value terrorist targets, though the landscape has changed dramatically compared to just two or three years ago.”
General Brennan also cautioned about external interference: “We’re working to reassure them of our support, but competing actors are spreading misinformation and false narratives about our intentions. We’re actively countering these efforts.”
antiterrorism drives pragmatic cooperation
Analysts suggest Washington’s approach stems from a pragmatic counterterrorism strategy, though it raises questions about the consistency of US policy toward regimes that emerged from coups. Abdoulmoumouni Abbas, a Sahel-based expert on radicalization prevention, emphasized broader US interests in the region.
“The US has significant strategic stakes in the Sahel—not just combating terrorism but also addressing drug trafficking, transnational crime, immigration challenges, and organized crime syndicates,” he noted. He pointed to past US military presence in Agadez as evidence of this multifaceted engagement.
regional security priorities and strategic adjustments
While AFRICOM’s leadership reaffirmed US commitment to regional security, Brennan clarified that Washington has no intention of replacing its Nigerien bases—following the junta’s decision to expel American troops. This clarification aims to ease concerns among local populations and regional stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the US has intensified military aid and intelligence-sharing with Nigeria to combat the Islamic State’s West African affiliates. Despite shifting alliances, Washington appears to balance counterterrorism objectives with geopolitical realities in the Sahel.