The United States is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with the Malian government that would allow Washington to resume intelligence operations in the West African nation after months of strained relations and security uncertainty.
According to diplomatic sources familiar with the discussions, negotiations between officials from the United States and Mali have intensified in recent weeks, with both sides seeking a framework that would permit the sharing of intelligence and the potential return of limited American security cooperation.
The move comes amid growing concerns about the security situation across the Sahel region, where militant groups linked to extremist organisations such as Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State have expanded their activities. Mali has been one of the countries most affected by insurgent violence over the past decade.
US intelligence support previously played a key role in monitoring extremist movements and assisting regional counterterrorism efforts. However, operations were disrupted following political tensions between Washington and Bamako, particularly after Mali’s military government deepened its ties with Russia and private military contractors.
Relations between the two countries deteriorated further after a series of military coups in Mali in 2020 and 2021, which led the United States and several Western partners to reassess their cooperation with the transitional authorities.
Despite those tensions, security analysts say renewed intelligence cooperation could benefit both sides. The United States is eager to maintain visibility over extremist networks operating across the Sahel, while Mali continues to face persistent security threats in its northern and central regions.
Sources indicate that the proposed agreement would focus primarily on intelligence sharing and surveillance rather than the deployment of large numbers of American troops. The arrangement could include the use of aerial reconnaissance assets and technical support to help track militant movements.
Malian authorities have also been seeking broader international partnerships to address the worsening security crisis, even as they strengthen military ties with non-Western allies.
Regional observers say a renewed intelligence partnership with Washington could help improve coordination with neighbouring countries battling similar insurgencies, including Niger and Burkina Faso, where militant attacks have surged in recent years.
While details of the proposed deal have not been publicly disclosed, officials say discussions are progressing cautiously as both governments attempt to rebuild trust after years of diplomatic strain.
If finalised, the agreement would mark a significant step toward restoring security cooperation between the United States and Mali and could influence broader counterterrorism efforts across the Sahel region.
