Niger Cuts Diplomatic Ties with Ukraine following Mali Amid West African Tensions

Niger has cut diplomatic ties with Ukraine, signaling a deepening rift between some West African nations and Kyiv. This follows Mali's recent decision to sever ties after a Ukrainian official suggested Kyiv's involvement in the deaths of Malian soldiers. Niger's government found these remarks "unacceptable" and acted in solidarity with Mali.

Ukraine is seeking African allies to counter Russia's growing influence on the continent. The conflict escalated when Malian soldiers and Russian Wagner group mercenaries were killed by rebels in July.

Ukrainian intelligence suggested rebels received critical information, prompting Mali to accuse Ukraine of violating its sovereignty.

Ukraine criticized Mali's move as "short-sighted" and reiterated its commitment to international law. Russia accused Ukraine of opening a "second front" in Africa, claiming Kyiv supports terrorist groups in Moscow-friendly countries.

Coups in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have led these nations to favor Russian military support over Western alliances. Ukraine's efforts to build African ties continue, with foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba visiting Malawi, Zambia, and Mauritius.

In Sudan, Wagner supports the paramilitary RSF in their conflict with the Sudanese army, with unverified reports of Ukrainian forces attacking RSF and Wagner fighters.

As the Ukraine-Russia conflict impacts Africa, mourners in Moscow recently honored Wagner fighters killed in July.