The move is seen as a precaution against a potential French military return, reflecting local concerns over renewed foreign intervention, particularly following ECOWAS’s response to the failed coup in Benin and the role France played.
The 5,000‑strong United Force of the Alliance of Sahel States (FU‑AES) was formally launched at an air force base in Bamako on Saturday, with Mali’s junta leader, General Assimi Goita, presiding.
The force brings together troops from all three countries to conduct coordinated operations against extremist groups that have killed thousands and displaced millions across the tri‑border region.
Burkinabe General Daouda Traoré was appointed commander of the unit, which will maintain its headquarters in Niamey, Niger’s capital, and operate with its own air, intelligence and ground coordination elements.
Defence ministers from all three countries attended, along with ambassadors and international representatives accredited to Mali.
The launch follows the three countries’ withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which they accuse of imposing punitive sanctions and undermining their interests following successive coups.
Rising tensions with Nigeria
The FU‑AES launch comes amid heightened tensions with Nigeria, long seen as West Africa’s security anchor. In early December, Nigerian fighter jets and ground troops intervened in neighbouring Benin after an attempted coup against President Patrice Talon, helping loyalist forces restore control.
Shortly afterwards, a Nigerian Air Force C‑130 transport aircraft made an emergency landing in Burkina Faso due to technical issues. Burkinabe authorities initially detained the 11 crew members, alleging an airspace violation. The personnel were later released following diplomatic discussions.
AES members criticised Nigeria’s intervention as overreach, while Nigerian officials said their actions in Benin were requested by the Beninese government and within regional security protocols.
Security and political implications
The FU‑AES reflects both urgent security needs from expanding jihadist activity and the alliance’s effort to reduce reliance on ECOWAS-led structures, even as it faces growing international pressure.
The United States recently expanded its travel restrictions to include countries aligned with the Alliance of Sahel States. Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger are now subject to full entry limitations, including suspension of visa issuance, due to security concerns related to ongoing terrorist activity and governance challenges.
Meanwhile, France is seeking to reassert its influence in the Sahel by deepening engagement with ECOWAS member states, particularly Nigeria, following its earlier troop withdrawals. This effort comes amid concerns over uranium sales to Russia and France’s decisive contribution to thwarting recent coups.
