US and Russia's Proxy War Bleeds Africa
In a move that has sparked concern among African nations and international observers, the United States has quietly opened talks with Mali's governing junta, reigniting a proxy war in the continent that pits Washington against Moscow.
According to The Washington Post, US officials have been engaging in counterterrorism discussions with Malian leaders since September 14, marking a significant escalation of American involvement in the region. This development comes as no surprise, given the long-standing rivalry between the US and Russia for influence on the African continent.
"We're seeing a classic case of great power politics playing out in Africa," said Dr. Adekeye Adebajo, Director of the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. "The US is trying to reassert its dominance in the region, while Russia is seeking to expand its foothold."
In recent months, Washington has increased its military presence in Mali, with a delegation from the House and Senate visiting Bamako last month. Deputy Assistant Secretary Will Stevens, the State Department's point man for West Africa, also met with Malian officials in July.
The US return to Mali marks a significant shift in strategy, as Washington seeks to counter Russian influence on the continent. In 2020, Russia deployed its private military company Wagner Group to Mali, sparking concerns about Moscow's intentions in the region.
"This is not just about security; it's about power and resources," said Dr. Adebajo. "The US and Russia are vying for control of Africa's vast natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals."
As tensions escalate between Washington and Moscow, African nations are caught in the middle. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned external interference in regional affairs, while the African Union has called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The current situation on the ground remains volatile, with reports of clashes between government forces and rebel groups. As the US and Russia continue their proxy war, one thing is clear: Africa's stability hangs in the balance.
Background
Mali has been embroiled in a cycle of violence since 2012, when Islamist rebels overran the northern region. The country's military coup in 2020 led to a power vacuum, which both Washington and Moscow have sought to exploit.
Additional Perspectives
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov dismissed US claims of interference, saying that Moscow is committed to supporting African nations in their fight against terrorism.
"We're not trying to impose our will on anyone," said Lavrov. "We're simply providing assistance to countries that need it."
Current Status and Next Developments
As the situation in Mali continues to deteriorate, international observers are bracing for further escalation. The US and Russia's proxy war is bleeding Africa, and it remains to be seen how this conflict will play out.
One thing is certain: the fate of Mali and the entire continent hangs in the balance.
*Reporting by Aljazeera.*
