Russia’s Intelligence Service Makes Explosive Allegations
Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service has accused France of orchestrating destabilisation campaigns across Africa, including alleged plots to assassinate leaders of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. In a statement released this week, Moscow claimed French intelligence operations were authorised at the highest level to undermine governments in the Sahel region.
Russia accuses France of plotting against Sahel leaders
Claims Target Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger
According to Russia, French President Emmanuel Macron allegedly approved covert intelligence actions targeting the military-led governments of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, accusing Paris of attempting to remove leaders who no longer align with French strategic interests in West Africa.
Alleged Assassination Plot Against Captain Ibrahim Traoré
Russia further claimed that French operatives on the ground were linked to attempted coups and political violence, including an alleged plot earlier this year to assassinate Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. The accusations also include claims that France has backed armed groups and sabotage operations across the Sahel.
France–Sahel Relations Severed Since 2022
The military heads of state of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have all severed military and diplomatic ties with France since 2022, opting instead to strengthen cooperation with Russia. Analysts say the accusations reflect escalating geopolitical rivalry in Africa, a trend closely monitored by global outlets such as BBC Africa and Al Jazeera.
France Yet to Respond
As of publication, France has not officially responded to the latest accusations. Observers warn that rising tensions between Western powers and Russia in Africa could further destabilise the Sahel, a region already facing insurgency, coups, and humanitarian crises.
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