Mali/Terrorism: Aggression by Ukraine, solidarity within the AES Confederation is once again demonstrated
The principles of solidarity, mutual support, and collective assistance, enshrined in the Liptako-Gourma Charter signed on September 16, 2023, continue to define the relationship between the three Sahelian nations of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). These nations—Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso—are united in their pursuit of peace, stability, and full sovereignty.
Since the signing of the charter, the solidarity within the AES Confederation has only grown stronger, manifesting itself whenever a member state faces difficulties or external threats.
A recent example of this unity was seen following a deadly attack in northern Mali in late July, which resulted in the loss of Malian and Russian soldiers.
The attack, reportedly carried out by a coalition of terrorists with support from Ukraine, has sparked outrage across the region.
In response to this aggression, Mali’s transitional government, led by President Colonel Assimi Goïta, swiftly severed diplomatic ties with Ukraine.
The Malian authorities condemned Ukraine as an ally of imperialists and terrorism, a sentiment echoed by much of the Malian public.
In a show of solidarity, Niger also condemned the Ukrainian aggression and criticized the African Union’s silence on the matter.
On August 6, Niger announced the immediate termination of its diplomatic relations with Ukraine.
Burkina Faso, which had already denounced Ukraine’s actions against the Malian military, reaffirmed its unwavering support for Mali’s armed forces.
Burkinabe authorities have called on Ukraine to reconsider its stance, urging African states to condemn the aggression and demanding that the international community address Ukraine’s choice to support terrorism, especially in a global context where combating this scourge is a shared priority.
As of now, Burkina Faso has not formally cut ties with Ukraine, but such a move is expected given the shared values and principles among the AES member states.
With Ukraine now perceived as a threat to Mali and potentially to the other AES nations—who have developed strategic partnerships with Russia—further diplomatic repercussions seem imminent.
Neil CAMARA
