Algeria has been actively enhancing its diplomatic engagement with Niger and Burkina Faso since early 2026, aiming to re-establish its influence in the Sahel region. This renewed focus comes in the wake of strained relations following an incident in April 2025, when Algerian forces shot down a Malian drone, prompting significant diplomatic fallout among the three members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). As a result of the incident, diplomatic relations soured, and ambassadors were recalled, leading to heightened tensions and the closing of airspace between Algeria and Mali.

Despite Mali's ongoing skepticism towards Algeria, the thawing relationships between Algeria and its other two AES partners, Niger and Burkina Faso, could facilitate a full re-engagement with the group. Algeria perceives the Sahel as an essential geopolitical arena, viewing its involvement as crucial for maintaining influence and addressing security concerns. The renewed diplomatic initiatives are aimed at showcasing Algeria's commitment to collaboration and stability within the AES framework.

Algeria's efforts can potentially serve as a test of cohesion among the AES members, especially given the complex dynamics currently at play. By successfully mending relations with Niger and Burkina Faso, Algeria not only stands to solidify its role in regional governance but also to assert its influence in addressing broader security challenges in the Sahel, an area increasingly fraught with instability and conflict. The success of this diplomatic outreach will likely have significant implications for the future of the AES and regional security initiatives.