On March 19, 2025, the international conference “The Sahel, Russia, and the Balkans – Strategic Interests and Challenges” was held at the Central Military Club in Sofia, organized by the Atlantic Club of Bulgaria and the Media Program “Southeast Europe” of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation. The forum brought together leading diplomats, analysts, security experts, and representatives of civil society from Europe and Africa to outline the influences and geopolitical interdependencies between the three strategic regions amid growing global challenges. The event was moderated by Kristina Baksanova.

Opening remarks were delivered by Christoph Pleyte, Director of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation’s Media Program for Southeast Europe, and Dr. Solomon Passy, President of the Atlantic Club of Bulgaria, who emphasized the importance of sustainable partnerships between the European Union, the Balkan countries, and the African Union.

The discussions focused on Russia’s increasing presence in the Sahel, where several military regimes are forging ever-closer ties with Moscow. Participants analyzed how the Kremlin employs political, military, and communication tools — including disinformation, cyber operations, and propaganda channels — to strengthen its position in the region. It was noted that these instruments are also used in the Western Balkan countries, which remain vulnerable to external influence and political instability.

Among the international guests was Mamadiara Diop — journalist and writer, who worked as a producer at Mikado FM radio, part of the UN mission in Mali, from 2016 until its closure. She presented an in-depth analysis of the role of the media in the Sahel and the impact of Russian propaganda on public attitudes. As an example, she cited Mali, where the training of journalists in Russia dates back to the 1960s — a historical link that facilitates the spread of Russian narratives and undermines democratic values and institutions.

Also participating in the discussion was Ulf Lassing — renowned journalist and Director of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation’s Regional Program for the Sahel. He outlined the complex web of geopolitical and economic interests in the region and stressed that disinformation is a key tool of influence. Lassing also pointed out one factor that facilitates the expansion of Russian presence — Russia’s lack of a colonial past in the Sahel, which leads to it being perceived as a more reliable partner from the perspective of local communities.

The forum also addressed broader challenges facing the European Union, including migration pressure, transnational crime, and energy security. Participants emphasized the need for a coordinated approach and strategic autonomy in countering hybrid threats from both state and non-state actors.

In conclusion, the conference demonstrated that developments in the Sahel are closely interconnected with the Balkans, Europe, and Russia, exerting a direct impact on the continent’s security and the global order. The key takeaways included the need for long-term strategic thinking, enhanced resilience capacity, and the formulation of policies that both respect the local context and respond to global challenges.