Russia holds talks with Sahel states on defense cooperation

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov held talks with his counterparts from Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, the ministry said on Thursday, telling them that Moscow is prepared to offer comprehensive support to help ensure stability in the Sahel region.

Belousov added that the four-party dialogue format would serve as a key platform for strengthening defense cooperation.

Following the talks, the participants signed a memorandum of understanding formalizing plans to deepen military collaboration.

Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have cut ties with Western nations since military takeovers, turning instead to Russia for support.