By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Mali has cut diplomatic relations with Ukraine, accusing it of aiding Tuareg rebels in a deadly attack in July. A Ukrainian official, Andriy Yusov, admitted to providing crucial information to the rebels, leading to significant casualties: 84 Wagner mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers.
Mali condemned Ukraine’s actions as “cowardly, treacherous, and barbaric,” and criticized Ukraine’s Ambassador to Senegal, Yurii Pyvovarov, for supporting the attack. “Ukraine’s actions are a direct violation of our sovereignty and support for international terrorism,” stated Mali’s government.
The intense fighting took place near the Algerian border at the Tinzaouatene military camp. While Mali’s army has acknowledged suffering significant casualties, it has not released specific numbers. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed Russia’s support for Mali, stating, “Russia stands firmly with Mali in these challenging times.” Since the 2020 coup, Mali has increasingly aligned with Russia, with Wagner operatives replacing French and international peacekeepers.
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