The armies of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger formed a new confederation called the Confederation of Sahelian States (AES).
The leaders of these countries who took part in the summit: General Abdurrahman Chiani of Niger, Colonel Assimi Goita of Mali and Captain Ibrahim Traore of Burkina Faso led the initiative. All three came to power in their countries through military coups from 2020 to 2023.
The summit took place after the withdrawal of these three countries from the Economic Community of West African States in January 2024. The countries’ leaders expressed indignation at the influence of France and decided to create their own regional association. The creation of a confederation is a step towards deeper integration between countries.
In addition, these countries have expelled French troops who were part of an anti-jihadist mission, and the United States will withdraw its troops from Niger by 15 September, near the capital Niamey, which is currently occupied by Russian troops.
Junta leaders from Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger planned the creation of the NPP after meetings with Russian delegations held in December 2023. These meetings underscored Moscow’s growing influence in the region.
360ua
