AES Leaders Condemn Algeria for Downing Malian Drone, Warn of Regional Instability
The Alliance of Sahel States condemned Algeria for destroying a Malian military drone, escalating regional tensions. This act, viewed as aggression, prompted diplomatic fallout including ambassador recalls. The AES emphasized the threat to collective security and underscored its commitment to counterterrorism amid increasing instability in the Sahel region.
hassan benyoub 
Bamako, Mali – April 6, 2025 – The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has issued a scathing statement condemning Algeria for the destruction of a Malian military drone, escalating tensions in an already volatile region. The incident, which occurred on the night of March 31 to April 1, 2025, in the Tinzaouatine area of Mali’s Kidal region, has been labeled an act of aggression by AES leaders, prompting diplomatic repercussions and renewed calls for unity against terrorism. Here’s the full story, optimized for SEO and search engine visibility.
Malian Drone Downed in Hostile Act
The AES Council of Heads of State expressed deep regret over the destruction of a Malian Armed Forces drone, registration number TZ-98D, in what they describe as a “hostile act” by the Algerian regime. The incident took place in Tinzaouatine, Abaybara district, Kidal province—a restive area near the Algeria-Mali border long plagued by insurgent activity. According to the AES, an investigation revealed the drone’s loss prevented the neutralization of a terrorist group planning attacks against the alliance, amplifying the incident’s gravity.
The statement, issued on April 6 in Bamako and signed by Mali’s transitional president and AES leader General Assimi Goïta, frames the drone’s destruction as a direct assault on all AES member states (Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger). It accuses Algeria of undermining regional stability and indirectly abetting terrorism, driving searches for “AES Algeria drone incident” and “Sahel region tensions 2025.”
A Unified Military Zone Under Threat
The AES reiterated its December 22, 2024, decision to designate the confederation’s airspace as a unified military operations zone, meaning an attack on one member is an attack on all. The council labeled Algeria’s actions a “cowardly tactic” to destabilize the Sahel, violating international law and eroding the historic, fraternal ties between AES nations and the Algerian people. The statement’s strong language reflects the alliance’s frustration, with SEO terms like “AES Algeria conflict” and “Sahel military zone” gaining traction online.
The incident’s timing is critical. The AES has prioritized counterterrorism as an “existential battle,” especially after withdrawing from French-led operations and expelling Western forces in recent years. The downing of the drone, which could have thwarted a terrorist plot, underscores the stakes for a region grappling with jihadist insurgencies linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS.
Diplomatic Fallout and Calls for Accountability
In response, the AES Council announced the immediate recall of its member states’ ambassadors from Algeria for consultations—a significant diplomatic move signaling deep displeasure. The council also issued a pointed reminder to Algeria, urging it to adopt a “constructive approach” to bolster peace and security rather than hinder anti-terrorism efforts. Social media reactions on X highlight the rift, with hashtags like #AESvsAlgeria and #SahelSecurity trending.
The statement also seeks to reassure Sahel populations, affirming that AES defense and security forces are fully mobilized to protect the confederation’s unity and territorial integrity. This message of resilience aims to counter fears of escalating conflict, a concern reflected in searches for “Sahel terrorism 2025” and “Mali Kidal security.”
A Region on Edge
The AES-Algeria spat adds another layer of complexity to the Sahel’s fragile geopolitics. Algeria, a historic supporter of anti-colonial movements, has clashed with the AES over its pivot away from Western partnerships and toward Russia, as well as its handling of the Tuareg rebellion in northern Mali. The Kidal region, a hotspot for separatist and jihadist activity, has long strained Algiers-Bamako relations, with Algeria accusing Mali of failing to secure the border.
This incident follows other regional tensions, such as Algeria’s fallout with France over Western Sahara and its tightened stance on AES nations after their 2023 coup-driven exits from ECOWAS. The drone incident could further isolate Algeria diplomatically while emboldening the AES to deepen its military integration, potentially with Russian support.
Conclusion: A Dangerous Escalation
The downing of a Malian drone by Algeria has thrust the Sahel into a new diplomatic crisis, with the AES framing it as an attack on their collective security. As ambassadors are recalled and accusations of terrorism complicity fly, the region braces for potential fallout. With the AES doubling down on its anti-terrorism fight, this incident could reshape alliances and security dynamics in the Sahel. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story.
