Russian Intelligence (SVR) Accuses France of Plotting Regime Change in Sahel Countries

In early February 2026, Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) publicly accused the government of French President Emmanuel Macron of orchestrating covert operations intended to destabilize and potentially overthrow governments in several African nations particularly in the Sahel region, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. These claims were made in an official statement released by the SVR.

What the SVR Allegations Say
According to the Russian intelligence service:

The Macron administration has allegedly authorized French intelligence services to develop plans for removing “undesirable leaders” in African states a strategy described by Moscow as “political revenge” after France’s influence in the region diminished.

The SVR claimed that France’s role in a failed attempted coup in Burkina Faso on 3 January 2026 has been “established,” asserting that the plot included plans to assassinate President Ibrahim Traoré. France is said to have hoped that Traoré’s removal would enable pro-French forces to regain power in Ouagadougou.

The agency also alleged that Paris is working with local armed groups and even receiving assistance from Ukraine in the form of drones and instructors to fuel instability in the Sahel.

The SVR’s statement claimed that activities attributed to France include attacks on fuel convoys, attempts to blockade urban areas and foster conditions it said could lead to the overthrow of leaders such as Mali’s President Assimi Goïta.

Beyond the Sahel, the SVR alleged efforts to undermine governments in the Central African Republic and Madagascar that are perceived as resisting French influence or aligning with other global blocs.

Context: Shifting Power Dynamics in the Sahel

These allegations come amid wider geopolitical tensions and changing alliances in West Africa:

In recent years, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have all undergone military coups, leading to juntas that expelled French troops and cut diplomatic ties with Paris. Anti-French sentiment has grown within their governments, driven by accusations that France’s counter-insurgency operations failed to improve security and instead prioritized French interests.

The juntas in these countries have increasingly sought political and military support from Russia, while rejecting traditional Western partners.

Niger’s transitional leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, has previously claimed that France and neighboring states backed mercenaries behind attacks such as those at Niamey’s international airport accusations in line with the broader narrative of French interference.

France’s Position and Response
As of the latest reports:
France has not responded publicly to these specific SVR allegations. Western officials often categorize similar claims from Russian sources as disinformation, intended to undermine European influence and bolster Moscow’s narrative in Africa.

Historically, France has framed its military presence in the Sahel as part of counter-terrorism efforts, though this policy has faced criticism both within Africa and in international debates.

Analytical and Cautionary Notes
These claims come solely from the SVR, a Russian state intelligence agency and independent verification of the allegations is not available. Intelligence statements during geopolitical rivalries often serve propaganda and strategic messaging purposes, and France has denied supporting militant groups in the region in past disputes.

The Sahel remains a complex arena where local conflicts, terrorism, great-power competition, and narratives about sovereignty and influence intersect. External actors including Russia, Western nations, and regional governments all engage in information shaping as part of broader geopolitical interests.

Mustapha Bature Sallama.
Medical/ Science Communicator,
Private Investigator, Criminal investigation and Intelligence Analysis.

International Conflict Management and Peace Building.USIP

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