Niger and Mali Cut Ties with Ukraine Amidst Tensions
In a sudden move, Niger’s military junta has announced that it is cutting diplomatic ties with Ukraine, following a similar decision by neighboring Mali. The move comes after Ukraine admitted to providing intelligence to rebel groups involved in a deadly battle in northern Mali, which killed dozens of Malian soldiers and members of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group.
According to Niger’s government spokesman, Amadou Abdramane, the country is severing diplomatic relations with Ukraine "with immediate effect" due to Ukraine’s alleged support for "terrorist groups." Abdramane also stated that Niger will ask the UN Security Council to debate Ukraine’s "aggression."
Mali made a similar decision on Monday, cutting ties with Ukraine after the Ukrainian intelligence agency admitted to providing information to Tuareg separatists during a military engagement in the north of Mali at the end of July.
The conflict in Mali has been ongoing for years, with various rebel groups and terrorist organizations operating in the region. Niger and Mali have both turned to Russia for military assistance after ending defense agreements with France.
Ukraine, which has been at war with Russia since its invasion in May 2022, has condemned Mali’s decision to sever relations, calling it "short-sighted and hasty." Ukraine has also rejected allegations of supporting international terrorism.
The development marks a significant escalation in tensions between Niger, Mali, and Ukraine, and raises questions about the future of diplomatic relations between the three countries.
