Ukraine being isolated from Sahel over Wagner row
Ukraine’s government has angered Niger’s officials in a latest spat which has only succeeded in stirring up hatred against it from a number of central African countries.
A spokesperson for the Niger government accuses Kiev of providing “support” to “terrorist groups” following a significant defeat of the Malian army at the end of July during clashes with separatists and jihadists, according to AFP and AP.
Niger’s Military junta announced on August 6th that it has cut diplomatic ties with Ukraine, claiming that remarks from Ukrainian officials demonstrated support for factions involved in the fighting in neighbouring Mali, which led to the deaths of many soldiers and Russian Wagner fighters in July.
READ: Niger talks Sahel’s security with Russia
This move follows Mali’s decision on August 4th to end its relations with Kyiv, prompted by comments from Ukraine’s military intelligence about the clashes in northern Mali, where Tuareg rebels reported killing at least 84 Wagner mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers.
Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso are three former French colonies who have turned their backs on France, forming a union which is seen as being closer to Russia.
On 28 January this year, Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso announced their immediate withdrawal from the Communauté Economique des Etas de l’Afrique Occidentale (ECOWAS). The three countries accused the regional bloc of being influenced by foreign powers and of betraying the founding principles of ECOWAS and becoming a threat to its members, referring to the increasing threats of military intervention in Niger.
The decision to withdraw from ECOWAS was in fact a response to the economic sanctions imposed by the organization and the threat of military intervention in Niger after the coup d’état of July 2023, which brought the junta led by Abdourahamane ‘Omar’ Tchiani to power.
The latest fall out between Niger and Ukraine was foreseen given Kiev’s support for rebels in Mali.
In a broadcast statement, spokesperson Abdourahamane Amadou announced that Niger had chosen to sever its connections with Ukraine immediately, in support of the Malian government and its citizens.
Ukraine expressed disapproval of Mali’s decision to end diplomatic relations, describing it as a hasty and ill-considered action, and dismissed the allegations of Ukrainian support for international terrorism.
The comments about the conflict made by Ukraine’s ambassador have drawn condemnation from Niger, Mali, and other West African countries, including Senegal, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, and Liberia.
AFP/AP/Other agencies
