Mali and Niger have cut diplomatic ties with Ukraine due to a controversial statement by Ukraine’s military intelligence agency (GUR), with some observers warning that a harsh reaction from Burkina Faso is to be expected, given the latter’s strong allegiance to Mali and Niger. A single statement implicating Ukraine in the death of dozens of Malian soldiers has within a week cost the East European country some points in the West African area, where it has sought to gain allies, given its ongoing conflict with Russia. Niger said on Wednesday (7 August) it had cut diplomatic ties with Ukraine, saying it made the move in “solidarity” with neighboring Mali, who severed their own relations with Kyiv two days earlier. Moscow’s influence across West Africa has undoubtedly contributed to Ukraine’s lack of influence and allegiance in Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso. The Summit of Peace in Ukraine that was held in Switzerland in June had 93 participants, only 11 of whom were African, highlighting Ukraine’s minimal influence in the continent as a whole.

Source: The North Africa Journal August 09, 2024 11:11 UTC