At the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, Mali's Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop addressed the issue of Ukraine's support for armed groups operating in the Sahel region. He stated that Ukraine's actions are a form of interference in the internal affairs of Sahel countries. Diop emphasized that the international community, particularly Africa, cannot remain silent in the face of such aggression.
According to Diop, Ukraine's support for armed groups in the Sahel region was first declared in 2024 and has been reaffirmed at the highest levels of the Ukrainian state. He cited independent sources that corroborate Mali's accusations against Ukraine. Diop described Ukraine's actions as "clear and assumed support" for terrorist groups and mafia-like organizations seeking to undermine the territorial integrity of Sahel countries.
Diop called on the international community to take a stand against Ukraine's actions, stating that they cannot continue to remain silent in the face of such aggression. He emphasized that Ukraine's actions are part of a larger phenomenon of destabilization in the Sahel region. Diop also highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to combating terrorism, including economic and media dimensions.
The Malian Foreign Minister condemned what he termed as the selective application of international law, double standards, and the abusive use of force. He also criticized the policies of hegemony and domination that have contributed to eroding trust in international institutions, including the United Nations. Diop expressed concern over the slow response of the UN to anticipating and addressing crises, such as those in the Sahel region.
Diop also addressed the issue of unilateral coercive measures, calling for their lifting and reaffirming Mali's willingness to engage in dialogue. He emphasized that Mali is committed to finding a solution to the conflict and is willing to work with international partners in a spirit of mutual respect. The Malian government has reiterated its commitment to negotiating a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
In his speech, Diop also touched on the issue of terrorism, stating that there are no "good" or "bad" terrorists. He condemned international terrorism and its state sponsors, emphasizing that Mali will continue to fight against terrorist groups. The Malian government has consistently called for a more robust international response to terrorism in the Sahel region.
The speech by Diop reflects Mali's concerns about the security situation in the Sahel region and the role of international actors in perpetuating instability. The Malian government has consistently called for a more nuanced understanding of the security challenges facing the region and for international partners to support its efforts to stabilize the country.
Key points
- Mali's Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop urges the international community to condemn Ukraine's support for armed groups in the Sahel region.
- Diop calls for a comprehensive approach to combating terrorism, including economic and media dimensions.
- Mali condemns the selective application of international law and double standards in the fight against terrorism.
