Security Updates

Over the weekend, regional bloc ECOWAS imposed new sanctions on Mali as the transitional government in the West African country attempts to extend its hold on power. The move to impose a raft of economic and diplomatic sanctions was in response to Malian military leaders’ desire to push back elections until 2025. With a number of airlines from neighbouring countries and former colonial ruler France cancelling flights to Mali on 10 January, the military junta is increasingly being isolated as repercussions from the August 2020 military coup and continued political upheaval continue. This isolation however could enable Russia to further strengthen its ties with the West African nation.