The United States is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with Mali that would allow American aircraft and drones to resume intelligence-gathering flights over the West African nation to monitor terrorist groups linked to Al‑Qaeda.
According to current and former US officials, Washington recently took a key step toward the deal by lifting sanctions imposed on Mali’s defence minister and other senior officials accused of having ties with Russian mercenaries. The move was reportedly a major condition requested by Mali’s government.
The proposed arrangement would enable the US to conduct aerial surveillance missions across Mali’s vast territory, where armed groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and other extremist networks continue to operate.
Officials say one motivation behind the renewed engagement is the search for an American pilot who was kidnapped in neighbouring Niger while working with Christian missionaries. The pilot is believed to be held by a militant group operating inside Mali.
The effort also reflects a broader attempt by the administration of Donald Trump to rebuild strained relations with Mali following tensions during the previous US administration.
In February, senior US envoy to Africa Nick Checker visited Mali and met with Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop to discuss a potential reset in bilateral relations.
Despite the diplomatic push, tensions remain. Mali, along with Niger and Burkina Faso, recently introduced reciprocal travel restrictions on Americans after the three countries were included in a US travel ban list.
Meanwhile, Mali continues to face serious security challenges. Armed groups linked to extremist networks have carried out attacks on mining operations and major transport routes, disrupting fuel supplies and economic activity in the capital Bamako.
It remains unclear whether Mali will formally approve US surveillance flights or where American aircraft would be based if the agreement moves forward.
