In recent weeks, a notable shift has occurred in the diplomatic landscape between Ukraine and several African countries closely aligned with Russia. Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, all of which maintain cordial relations with Moscow, have either severed diplomatic ties with Ukraine or condemned it over alleged involvement in regional conflicts. These actions have raised questions about the underlying reasons for this sudden rift and its implications for Ukraine’s efforts to strengthen ties with Africa amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Mali: The First to Cut Ties
The diplomatic fallout began when Mali, a nation governed by a military junta with strong ties to Russia, announced on August 1, 2024, that it was severing diplomatic relations with Ukraine. The decision followed an attack on July 25, 2024, near Mali’s border with Algeria, which resulted in the deaths of several Malian soldiers and Wagner Group mercenaries—a Russian paramilitary organization actively involved in the region.
Mali’s military government accused Ukraine of playing a role in the deadly skirmish, claiming that Ukrainian military intelligence had provided crucial information to rebels responsible for the attack. Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga, a prominent Malian official, condemned Ukraine’s alleged involvement, calling it a violation of Mali’s sovereignty and an act of supporting terrorism.
Ukraine, however, has vehemently denied any involvement, emphasizing its commitment to regional security in Africa, including its past contributions to UN peacekeeping missions in Mali between 2019 and 2022. The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed regret over Mali’s decision, criticizing the lack of evidence and due process in reaching such a conclusion.
Niger Joins the Fray
In solidarity with Mali, Niger, another West African nation ruled by a junta, followed suit by announcing the severance of diplomatic relations with Ukraine. Niger cited Ukraine’s alleged aggression against Mali as the primary reason for this drastic measure. Amadou Abdramane, a spokesperson for Niger’s military government, stated that the country would appeal to the United Nations Security Council to address what it termed as Ukrainian aggression and its support for terrorism.
Niger’s decision underscores the growing alignment between African countries with close ties to Russia, particularly those under military rule. Like Mali, Niger’s junta has fostered strong relations with Moscow, further complicating Ukraine’s diplomatic outreach in the region.
Burkina Faso’s Condemnation
While Burkina Faso stopped short of severing ties with Ukraine, it issued a strong condemnation of the alleged attack, accusing the Ukrainian Embassy in Dakar, Senegal, of supporting terrorism. Burkina Faso’s government reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Malian Armed Forces in their fight against terrorism and their Russian allies, signaling its alignment with Mali and Niger in the growing anti-Ukraine sentiment.
The Broader Implications
These diplomatic rifts come at a time when Ukraine is actively seeking to expand its presence in Africa, a continent that has become increasingly important in global geopolitics. Last year, Ukraine operated only 11 embassies across Africa, but it has since sought to increase that number to at least 20. However, with Mali and Niger cutting ties, Ukraine’s efforts to build new alliances on the continent face significant challenges.
Ukraine’s foreign ministry has reiterated its desire for genuine friendships with African nations based on mutual respect and cooperation. However, the severance of diplomatic ties by key African countries, particularly those aligned with Russia, reflects the deepening influence of Moscow in the region and the complex geopolitical dynamics at play.
As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, the diplomatic fallout in Africa highlights the broader global ramifications of the war and the shifting alliances that are reshaping international relations. Ukraine’s path to strengthening ties with Africa now appears more challenging, requiring renewed efforts to rebuild trust and navigate the intricate web of global politics.
