# Ukraine's Mali military ties

> Ukraine may support Mali rebels against Russian-backed government.
- Title: Ukraine's Mali military ties · Dw | Shortify
- Summary: Ukraine may support Mali rebels against Russian-backed government. Ukraine's military intelligence reportedly aids Tuareg rebels in Mali to weaken Russian…
- Keywords: ukraine, mali, tuareg, jihadists, wagner group, russian military, africa, sahel region, mali conflict, ukraine military, news, world
- Source: Dw — https://dw.com/en/why-ukraine-may-be-involved-in-mali-s-conflict/a-79743423?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: ukraine, mali, tuareg, jihadists, wagner group, russian military, africa, sahel region, mali conflict, ukraine military, news, world
## Ukraine's Mali military ties
Ukraine may support Mali rebels against Russian-backed government.
## Ukrainian drone specialists in Mali
CNN reports 15 Ukrainian drone specialists reportedly support Tuareg rebels in northern Mali.
## Common enemy: Bamako government
Ukrainian allies target military government in Bamako and its Russian allies.
## Strategic motive for Ukraine
Ukraine aims to weaken Russia's global influence and economic opportunities.
## Russian historian's view
Irina Filatova says Ukrainian support for Tuareg movement is plausible but lacks evidence.
## Ukrainian intelligence's role
Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine's former military intelligence head, claims Ukraine protects interests worldwide.
## HUR's response to DW
HUR did not confirm personnel deployment to Mali or political approval for missions.
## Mali's shift to Russia
Mali turned away from Western partners after 2020 and 2021 coups, favoring Russia.
## Wagner Group's role in Mali
Wagner Group and Malian troops suffered heavy losses in July 2024 ambush.
## Tactical alliance with Tuareg
Ukraine's support for Tuareg is a tactical arrangement against common enemy.
## Jihadist group cooperation
Tuareg rebels and jihadist groups cooperate but have differing objectives.
## Political risks for Ukraine
Ukraine faces accusations of supporting separatists in African countries.
## Key takeaway

Ukraine's military intelligence reportedly aids Tuareg rebels in Mali to weaken Russian influence, but evidence remains unconfirmed.