Ukraine Partners with Mauritania to Counter Russian Influence in the Sahel

As armed groups continue to expand and geopolitical shifts unfold across the Sahel region, Mauritania is becoming an increasingly significant player. Its strategic importance is now being recognized globally, with Ukraine seeking to strengthen ties with Nouakchott in an effort to counter Russia’s growing presence in Africa.

Ukraine’s Military Cooperation with Mauritania

Maksym Sobkh, Ukraine’s Special Representative for the Middle East and Africa, recently announced plans for Ukraine to provide military training to Mauritania. This collaboration is part of a broader strategy to shift influence away from Russia in the region. By training Mauritanian soldiers and officers, Ukraine aims to create a more balanced security environment in the Sahel.

Mauritania, a neutral and stable country, plays a critical role in regional security. Despite sharing a border with Mali, which has strong ties to Russia through military companies like the Africa Corps (former Wagner Group), Mauritania has been largely free from the internal conflicts affecting many of its neighbours. This stability makes Mauritania an ideal partner for Ukraine’s efforts.

Mauritania: A Hub of Stability in the Sahel

In a region where alliances are constantly shifting, Mauritania has maintained its sovereignty. The country has worked to build strong security ties with international partners, including the European Union, NATO, and the Czech Republic. In 2025, Czech President Petr Pavel visited Nouakchott to underline the importance of these partnerships.

Mauritania’s diplomatic approach has also earned it recognition on the global stage. The European Union recently committed an additional €20 million in military assistance, on top of the €27 million it had already pledged. This financial support is aimed at bolstering Mauritania’s military capabilities, making it a vital part of regional stability.

Ukraine and Russia: Competing for Influence in Africa

Ukraine’s strategy contrasts with Russia’s. While Russia has built influence in the region through paramilitary groups like the Wagner Group and the African Corps, Ukraine is focusing on a more diplomatic approach. By offering training, expertise, and institutional support, Ukraine aims to foster strong, long-term relationships with countries like Mauritania.

Mauritania, with its neutral stance, is seen as a key partner in this competition. It is a stable and credible option for Ukraine to test its security cooperation initiatives. This partnership could help reshape Africa’s role in the broader global strategic balance, turning the continent into a more active participant in international affairs rather than just a battleground for power struggles.

A Delicate Balance for Mauritania

For Mauritania, the decision to work with Ukraine presents a delicate challenge. On one hand, it seeks to maintain its non-aligned status, avoiding getting caught in the middle of global power struggles. On the other hand, it must navigate the complex international dynamics to strengthen its defence capabilities without compromising its sovereignty.

If the cooperation with Ukraine goes forward, it will serve to diversify Mauritania’s existing alliances and reinforce its position as a centre of stability in the Sahel region.

Ukrainian officials, including Andriy Yusov from the Defence Intelligence Directorate (GUR), have reportedly acknowledged providing information or training to Tuareg rebels, particularly in drone usage, to counter Russian-backed forces like the Wagner Group (now African Corps). This cooperation shows the expanding scope of Ukraine’s engagement in the Sahel and highlights Mauritania’s growing importance in the region.