U.S. reorients Sahel policy toward economic and security cooperation

This week’s visit to Mali by Nick Checker, head of the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, signals Washington’s strategic reset in the Sahel. Departing from previous approaches, the U.S. is recalibrating its regional engagement across three key dimensions: pivoting toward trade diplomacy—particularly in critical minerals, refocusing security efforts with a reduced but targeted military footprint, and shifting away from broad humanitarian aid in favor of precision-based economic and security partnerships.

Expert analysis: Dr. Gnaka Lagoke on shifting U.S. priorities

DW: During his visit to Bamako, Nick Checker met with Mali’s foreign minister and transitional leader Assimi Goïta. What distinguishes the Trump administration’s Sahel policy from previous approaches, and what are its core objectives in West Africa?

The ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum in Niger marked a turning point. While France mobilized military consultations to reinstate Bazoum, the U.S. adopted a more pragmatic stance. Even after Niger’s new authorities requested the closure of U.S. military bases and the withdrawal of American forces, Washington refrained from escalating tensions—an approach initiated under Joe Biden’s administration.

In today’s geopolitical climate, with heightened competition among global powers like Russia and China, Washington’s strategic establishment has emphasized aligning U.S. policy with two pillars: security collaboration and economic leverage. The Sahel’s vast mineral reserves—essential for American industries—have become a focal point in this recalibration, mirroring similar resource-driven strategies in Venezuela, Iran, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

DW: With no permanent U.S. military presence remaining in Niger, why has Nigeria emerged as Washington’s preferred partner in West Africa?

Under President Donald Trump, the U.S. justified its intervention in northern Nigeria by citing the protection of Christian communities allegedly targeted by Islamist militants. Following approval from Nigerian authorities, the U.S. conducted airstrikes in the region. However, experts widely agree that these limited strikes are unlikely to dismantle extremist networks. The underlying motivation appears rooted in access to Nigeria’s oil and strategic resources, reinforcing the dual security-economic logic guiding U.S. actions across the Sahel. This approach may ultimately pave the way for new military installations, with former Niger-based forces potentially relocating to Benin or Côte d’Ivoire.

DW: What benefits could the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) countries gain from collaborating with a Trump-led U.S.?

The U.S. presents itself as a pragmatic alternative to France and the European Union, which have often treated AES nations as pariahs. This shift offers the alliance a fresh diplomatic channel. Additionally, as global power dynamics intensify between Western nations and BRICS economies, Washington’s overtures provide African states with strategic maneuvering space. The U.S. emphasizes sovereignty—particularly for Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—aligning its rhetoric with regional aspirations. However, historical context raises questions: reports suggest covert networks involving France, the U.S., and other actors may still seek regime change in these countries. Only time will reveal whether this strategy reflects genuine partnership or calculated maneuvering.

• Key takeaway: The U.S. is prioritizing economic partnerships—especially in mining—and targeted security cooperation over large-scale military presence or humanitarian aid.
• Strategic pivot: Nigeria’s role is expanding amid the withdrawal from Niger, driven by resource interests and regional influence.
• Diplomatic opening: The AES gains new negotiation leverage but must navigate complex geopolitical currents.