Mali Severs Diplomatic Ties with Ukraine Over Wagner Attack Allegations

In a significant move that furthers the escalation of international tension, Mali has announced the cessation of its diplomatic relationship with Ukraine. This profound decision arises on the heels of claims that a Ukrainian official acknowledged involvement in a battle that rendered severe casualties among Malian soldiers and Russian mercenaries from the Wagner group.

Last month, Mali experienced a significant loss when clashes erupted in the north, near the Algerian border. This three-day engagement led to the deaths of numerous combatants, including what was purported to be a staggering number of Wagner mercenaries, a force alleged to have stepped in to assist Malian efforts against insurgents two years ago.

Andriy Yusov, the spokesperson for Ukraine’s military intelligence, reportedly conveyed to Suspilne, a public broadcaster, that Tuareg rebels had been provided with critical intelligence enabling them to execute an effective operation on the Wagner forces, viewed as Russian war criminals by some international parties.

This controversial confession prompted Mali's government to express grave dismay and ultimately, the cutting of ties, as cited in a pronounced statement from the government spokesman Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga.

The comments attributed to Yusov implicate Ukraine in what Malian authorities deemed a "cowardly, treacherous, and barbaric attack," which also victimized Malian Defence and Security Forces members. This sentiment extends to comments by Yurii Pyvovarov, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Senegal, in a Facebook video, that have been perceived by Mali as an endorsement of the attack.

Mali's firm stance reflects a perceived affront to its sovereignty, deeming Ukraine's purported actions as not only meddling but also an act of supporting terrorism on the international stage.

While the Malian army acknowledged a considerable toll from the conflict, specific casualty figures remain undisclosed. Contrarily, Russian support for Mali continues, as evidenced by a recent phone conversation between Russia's Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Malian counterpart.

The relationship between Mali and the Wagner group exemplifies the country's shift toward Russia, following the removal of French troops and international peacekeepers. Despite the purported presence of around 1,000 Wagner fighters in Mali since late 2021, Mali vehemently denies allegations of the group's involvement in attacks that have resulted in civilian casualties.

This decisive severance of diplomatic ties underscores the complex geopolitical entanglements present in Mali. It highlights a burgeoning alliance with Russia amidst its enduring struggle with separatist rebels and Islamist militants.