Mali's Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop has spoken about the positive impact of his country's cooperation with Russia on its military. In an interview with African Initiative, Diop said the partnership has allowed Mali's army to strengthen and regain the initiative on the ground. He praised Russian troops fighting alongside Malian forces and the sacrifices they have made. This development comes after Mali ended its defense agreements with France and expelled French troops in 2022.
The Malian minister highlighted that his country's military is now on the offensive, having made significant gains. He paid tribute to Malian and Russian soldiers who have died in combat. Diop emphasized that the equipment obtained through the partnership with Moscow has enhanced the operational capacity and combat effectiveness of Malian troops. This cooperation has enabled Mali to assert its sovereignty over its entire territory.
The partnership between Mali and Russia began with the deployment of Russian elements to Mali in December 2021. In 2023, Moscow established the Africa Corps to replace the Wagner group, with its remaining units integrated into the new structure in June 2025. Diop's comments reflect a significant shift in Mali's military fortunes, with the country now in a stronger position to tackle security challenges.
According to Diop, Mali's military, supported by the Africa Corps, continues to conduct operations aimed at extending state authority over the entire territory. While acknowledging that security threats persist, he expressed confidence in the ability of Malian and Russian forces to address these challenges. The cooperation between Mali and Russia has been a key factor in the country's improved security situation.
Diop also emphasized the regional dimension of the security challenges facing Mali. He highlighted the importance of cooperation with neighboring countries, including Burkina Faso and Niger, within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The minister noted that the security threat is a transnational one, requiring a collective response from countries in the region.
The departure of the UN's Minusma mission from Mali in 2022 marked a significant change in the country's security landscape. Diop suggested that the mission had not been effective in restoring state authority, but that the current cooperation with Russia has yielded better results. Mali's relations with international partners have undergone significant changes in recent years.
The cooperation between Mali and Russia has significant implications for the country's security and sovereignty. With the support of Russian troops and equipment, Mali's military has made notable gains against security threats. As the country continues to work with regional partners to address these challenges, the impact of the partnership with Russia will likely be closely watched.
Key points
- Mali's military cooperation with Russia has enhanced its operational capacity and combat effectiveness.
- The partnership has allowed Mali to assert its sovereignty over its entire territory.
- Mali is cooperating with regional countries, including Burkina Faso and Niger, to address transnational security threats.
