The US is making a major policy shift toward three West African countries — Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger — whose military juntas have turned away from France and leaned on Russia for support. Nick Checker, head of the US Bureau of African Affairs, will visit Mali's capital Bamako to express US “respect for Mali's sovereignty” and start a “new course” in relations, focusing on security and economic cooperation. This marks a clear change from previous US policy, which stopped military cooperation after coups ousted elected governments between 2020 and 2023. The US is dropping its usual emphasis on democracy and human rights, choosing to support the fight against Islamist insurgents, particularly Islamic State groups active in the Sahel region. The Sahel, stretching south of the Sahara Desert, is a hotspot for terrorism with nearly half of the world's terrorist deaths occurring there. The US fears these jihadist groups may create safe havens threatening global security. The tri-border area where Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger meet is especially dangerous, with recent attacks like the bombing at Niamey airport in Niger. Besides security, the US also wants to protect valuable minerals like gold, lithium, and uranium found in these countries. Niger’s junta recently took over its key uranium mine from French control and is seeking Russian partners. Unlike the previous US stance and European views, the current administration does not see Russia’s military presence in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger as a threat. Moscow has sent about 1,000 security contractors to Mali and smaller forces to the others, despite allegations of abuses. The US position now seems to be balancing Russian influence by offering intelligence and possibly weapons, while avoiding sending troops or reopening bases, respecting calls to end “forever wars.” This pragmatic approach suits the political base that opposes long overseas military engagements. After coups, the three countries left the West African regional bloc Ecowas and are forming their own alliance. Ecowas, no longer responsible for them, is focusing on its remaining members. Militants have started crossing borders into neighboring states, raising the stakes for regional security. US support aims to achieve quick wins against jihadists. However, experts warn that military aid alone won’t bring peace without tackling the deep social and economic issues in this poor region.