Mali is set to build its first nuclear reactor with Russia’s assistance, reflecting a new era of energy cooperation between the two countries. This collaboration comes as Western influence in the Sahel diminishes, providing Russia an opportunity to strengthen its regional presence.
Recent agreements, finalized during a visit by Rosatom’s delegation to Mali, include constructing a low-power nuclear power plant. Although details remain sparse, the political and energy implications are significant. Russia is expanding its influence in the Sahel, a region where Western powers, particularly France, have faced setbacks.
The Russian Ministry of Defense has restructured Wagner’s mercenaries in Africa into the Africa Corps, enhancing Russia’s strategic operations on the continent. These troops are active in nations like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Libya, training local armies and securing resource extraction operations, including gold, bauxite, and diamonds.
📯☢️🇲🇱Mali wants to build a first nuclear reactor with the help of🇷🇺Russia.
Agreements have been signed to strengthen the energy cooperation between the two countries.
With the West losing influence in the Sahel, energy becomes a special tool in the hands of the Kremlin
🧵 https://t.co/ft0Pw0ARwQ pic.twitter.com/XdrDfhTKcZ— Francesco Sassi (@Frank_Stones) July 12, 2024
In Mali, the Africa Corps is likely to protect mining operations, especially uranium extraction at the Falea mine. Although Mali plays a minor role in the global uranium market, new mining operations could heighten the importance of securing uranium supplies for the nuclear reactor project.
Russia’s involvement in Mali underscores its broader strategy to regain and expand influence in Africa. By providing technological, financial, and security support for energy projects, Russia is positioning itself as a key player in the region’s energy landscape. This move serves Russia’s economic interests and enhances its geopolitical leverage amid shifting global alliances.
The partnership between Russia and Mali will likely have far-reaching implications, affecting regional stability and the balance of power in Africa. The construction of a nuclear reactor in Mali could be a pivotal development, highlighting the growing importance of energy in international relations and strategic planning.
With the Russian Ministry of Defense taking control of Wagner’s mercenaries in Africa, renaming them Africa Corps, Russia is regaining lost influence in the continent, re-building ties lost after the demise of the USSR, but also creating new relationships.https://t.co/2TsaLNTzS9
— Francesco Sassi (@Frank_Stones) July 12, 2024