In a notable shift in diplomatic relations, a senior U.S. official has praised Mali’s military junta and hinted at potential cooperation, marking a departure from years of strained ties. Christopher Landau, the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, commended Mali’s armed forces for their efforts against Islamic extremist militants (JNIM) and expressed optimism about enhanced collaboration following discussions with Mali’s Foreign Minister. This development comes just days after American diplomats and nationals were advised to leave Mali due to security concerns. Mali’s Foreign Ministry has refrained from commenting on the matter. The U.S. government’s overture aligns with broader efforts under the Trump administration to mend relations with junta-led nations in West Africa, a region that has experienced significant diplomatic isolation following a series of military coups since 2020. These coups have strained ties between Sahelian countries and their former Western allies, including France and the U.S., with French forces expelled and American troops ordered out of Niger. Despite joint counterterrorism efforts by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger under the Alliance of Sahel States, attacks by armed groups have intensified. Experts warn that JNIM’s recent blockade on oil imports into Mali, causing severe economic disruptions, signals the group’s growing ambitions. Some analysts suggest JNIM may be pursuing a Taliban-style takeover, leveraging its control over rural areas and economic choke points. While the U.S. has expressed diplomatic engagement, there is no clear indication of imminent military involvement unless the security landscape in the region undergoes a radical shift.
Senior US official praises Mali’s military junta in fight against armed groups as pressure mounts
