The Defense Agreement Between Algeria and the United States: A Strategic Shift That Worries Moscow

The recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Algeria and the United States in the field of defense marks a significant development in the bilateral relations between the two countries. While the specific details of the agreement remain undisclosed, it is clear that the MoU aims to establish mechanisms for cooperation to bolster joint efforts in combating terrorism and drug trafficking in North Africa, particularly in the strategically important Sahel region. However, this rapprochement may raise concerns in Moscow, which has traditionally been a key partner for Algeria and could perceive this development as a shift in Algeria's strategic priorities.

Strategic Context: Enhanced Military Cooperation

As a regional power and a key player in combating insecurity in the Sahel, Algeria has historically relied on diverse military partnerships to maintain its strategic independence. The agreement with Washington fits into this framework, reflecting Algeria's desire to diversify its international partnerships and engage more actively with the United States, beyond the traditional ties it maintains with Russia, its primary arms supplier.

This U.S.-Algeria cooperation is likely to encompass various areas, including military training, intelligence sharing, and coordination in addressing transnational threats such as terrorism and drug trafficking. Notably, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has played a pivotal role in investigating drug trafficking networks in North Africa, a region where Morocco has often been accused of being complicit in illicit activities. Washington appears increasingly inclined to collaborate with Algeria, which is seen as a reliable and committed partner.

Russia's Reaction: A Sense of Marginalization?

The agreement between Algeria and the United States has not gone unnoticed in Moscow. Russia, Algeria's traditional ally since the Cold War, may view this rapprochement as an attempt by Algeria to diversify its strategic alliances or even distance itself from Russian influence. This shift could be interpreted as a signal of Algeria's dissatisfaction with Moscow's ambiguous stance on certain sensitive issues, particularly the Western Sahara conflict.

In this context, Russia has been reluctant to strongly support Algeria's positions at the United Nations Security Council regarding Western Sahara. Instead, it has opted for a more neutral stance, which at times indirectly benefits Moroccan interests. This hesitation has likely frustrated Algeria, which views defending the rights of the Sahrawi people as a diplomatic priority. As such, the agreement with Washington could serve as leverage to remind Moscow that Algeria has alternative strategic options.

Algeria's Central Role in the African and Sahelian Landscape

For Moscow, Algeria's significance extends beyond the bilateral relationship. Algeria is a key player in Africa, particularly in the Sahel, a region critical to Russian interests in its quest for influence on the continent. With the growing presence of Russia's Wagner Group and other initiatives in Africa, Moscow seeks to consolidate its geopolitical positioning. However, this requires strong alliances, and Algeria, due to its geographical location and military capabilities, is an indispensable partner.

If Algeria deepens its cooperation with Washington, this could weaken Russia's efforts in the region. Moscow cannot afford to lose such a strategically vital ally at a time when it seeks to counter Western influence in Africa.

A Strategic Message from Algeria

By signing this agreement with the United States, Algeria appears to be sending a dual message. On the one hand, it asserts its strategic autonomy, refusing to fully align with any single international partner. On the other hand, it reminds Russia that their bilateral relationship cannot be one-sided and that Algeria expects tangible support from Moscow on critical issues like Western Sahara.

By balancing its relationships with Washington and Moscow, Algeria is also enhancing its strategic leverage. This nuanced approach ensures that its national interests are considered, whether by its Western partners or its traditional allies.

Conclusion

The memorandum of understanding signed between Algeria and the United States represents a major development in the geopolitics of North Africa and the Sahel. While it strengthens joint efforts to combat common threats such as terrorism and drug trafficking, it also signals a shift in Algeria's strategy of balancing its international partnerships. For Russia, this rapprochement is a wake-up call to reevaluate its relationship with Algeria and to provide stronger support for Algeria's priorities. Amid growing rivalries among global powers, Algeria, faithful to its doctrine of independence, seems determined to leverage its strategic position to defend its own interests.