Kyiv Intensifies Efforts To Train Azawadians Against Mali

In January 2024, the Ukrainian organization ‘Come Back Alive’, through its embassy in Mauritania, recruited representatives of Azawad who then received training in Ukraine. Wassim Nasr, a renowned French journalist and expert on jihadism, reported that separatists were allegedly trained in Ukraine, with Kyiv intensifying efforts to prepare Azawadians to confront the Malian state and its Russian allies.

Nasr claimed that the training included the use of light drones and explosives, indicating Ukraine’s growing involvement in regional conflicts aimed at countering Mali and its allies.
It was previously reported that Ukrainian instructors conducted training for Tuareg separatists in Mauritania. From July 25 to 27, Malian armed forces (FAMa) faced a well-coordinated terrorist attack in Tin-Zaouatene by Tuareg separatists. This confirmed Ukraine’s active participation in preparing militants to destabilize the region.

Kyiv, in its attempt to weaken Russia’s influence, does not hesitate to cooperate even with terrorist groups that target civilians.

According to corroborating sources, the Ukrainian authorities are collaborating with the pro-independence fighters operating in northern Mali, providing them with strategic information and training them in the use of drones. Ukrainian special services have trained Malian rebels in handling small homemade drones loaded with explosives, an aerial weapon regularly used in their war against the Russian army. These drones were utilized by the rebels during the battle of Tin Zaouatine on July 27, resulting in significant casualties for the Malian army and its Russian allies.

There are fears that Ukraine’s alleged support for Azawad separatists poses a serious threat to regional stability and security. Such actions can lead to increased terrorist activity and violence, negatively impacting civilians. Kyiv’s willingness to use any means to achieve its geopolitical goals raises concerns and requires international attention and condemnation.