US Nears Security Deal with Mali for Counterterrorism Surveillance

The United States is reportedly close to finalising an agreement with Mali that would allow American aircraft and drones to resume intelligence-gathering missions over the West African country to monitor extremist groups linked to Al-Qaeda.

According to current and former US officials, Washington recently took a key step toward the potential deal by lifting sanctions imposed on Mali’s defence minister and several senior officials accused of having ties to Russian mercenaries. The move was reportedly a major condition requested by Mali’s government.

If approved, the arrangement would enable the US to conduct aerial surveillance operations across Mali’s vast territory, where armed groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and other militant networks continue to pose a major security threat.

Officials say the renewed engagement is also partly motivated by efforts to locate an American pilot kidnapped in neighbouring Niger while working with Christian missionaries. The pilot is believed to be held by a militant group operating inside Mali.

The diplomatic initiative reflects a broader effort by the administration of Donald Trump to rebuild strained relations with Mali after tensions during the previous US administration.

In February, US envoy to Africa Nick Checker visited Mali and held talks with Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop aimed at resetting bilateral relations.

However, relations remain complicated. Mali, along with Niger and Burkina Faso, recently introduced reciprocal travel restrictions on Americans after the three countries were placed on a US travel ban list.

Meanwhile, Mali continues to face significant security challenges. Extremist groups have carried out attacks on mining sites and key transport routes, disrupting fuel supplies and economic activity in the capital Bamako.

It remains unclear whether Mali will formally approve US surveillance flights or where American aircraft could be based if the agreement moves forward.

Source: Newstimehub