Ukraine has denied allegations that it supplied drones to Tuareg rebels fighting the Malian army and Russia-backed mercenaries, following a report by France’s Le Monde newspaper. The report claimed that Ukrainian drones were supporting rebels in Mali’s ongoing conflict, accusing Kyiv of providing “discreet but decisive support.”
Mali’s junta, which severed ties with France in 2022 in favor of Russian allies to combat northern insurgents, has faced continued unrest. Recent heavy losses—reportedly including 84 Wagner-linked fighters and 47 Malian soldiers in clashes at Tinzaouaten—have intensified scrutiny of Kyiv’s alleged role.
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement Monday, rejecting claims that it supplied unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or provided intelligence to Mali’s rebels. The ministry dismissed the accusations as “false information” aligned with Russian propaganda narratives. It also refuted accusations from Malian and Nigerien officials that Kyiv was aiding a “terrorist coalition” in the region.
In July, a Ukrainian intelligence spokesman, Andriy Yusov, said rebels had obtained “necessary information” to execute attacks against Malian and Wagner forces. Following his remarks, rebel commanders acknowledged “links” with Kyiv, though they did not confirm the origin of their drones, according to Le Monde.
Mali cut diplomatic ties with Ukraine in August, accusing Kyiv of violating its sovereignty. Meanwhile, Russia, facing diplomatic isolation over its war with Ukraine, continues to strengthen its influence in Africa through political and military alliances, including with Mali’s junta.
