Overview

• Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have recalled their ambassadors from Algeria, alleging that Algeria intentionally destroyed a Malian military drone within Malian territory.
• The Malian government claims the drone wreckage was found 9.5 kilometers south of the Algerian border, contradicting Algeria's assertion that the drone entered its airspace.
• Mali has announced additional measures, including withdrawing from the Comité d'état-major conjoint (CEMOC) and filing an international complaint against Algeria for aggression.
• The incident marks the latest strain in deteriorating relations between Mali and Algeria, with Mali accusing Algeria of supporting terrorist groups and undermining its sovereignty.
• This development underscores the growing realignment in the Sahel region, as the Alliance of Sahel States distances itself from traditional Western and regional alliances.