RUSSO-MALIAN COOPERATION: WITHOUT LIMITS!!
The Soviet Era (1960-1991)
Relations between Mali and the Soviet Union began shortly after Mali’s independence in 1960. President Modibo Keïta, who led the country from 1960 to 1968, established close ties with the Soviet bloc, seeking economic and military support to develop Mali. The USSR became a key player by providing technical assistance, infrastructure, and military training. Military and Economic Support: During this period, the USSR supported Mali’s development efforts, particularly in agriculture and education. The Malian government also received military equipment, thereby strengthening its capabilities. This support was largely motivated by the USSR’s desire to counter Western influence in Africa.[1]
Post-Soviet Thaw (1991-2000)
Transition after the Cold War: The collapse of the USSR in 1991 prompted a reevaluation of international relations. Under President Alpha Oumar Konaré (1992-2002), Mali sought to diversify its partnerships but maintained ties with Russia, particularly through diplomatic exchanges and official visits. Diplomatic Visits: In 1999, a senior Russian official visited Mali, marking an attempt to restore bilateral relations. This visit was seen as a sign of Russia’s renewed interest in Africa at a time when the country sought to strengthen its influence on the continent.
Historical figures of Mali and their Actions towards the USSR/Russia:
Modibo Keïta: As the first president of Mali, Keïta played a central role in establishing relations with the USSR. His commitment to socialism facilitated Mali’s alignment with the Soviet Union. Alpha Oumar Konaré: Under his presidency, Mali experienced a democratic transition and sought to strengthen its international relations with the West, including with Russia. Konaré was a staunch advocate of South-South cooperation, promoting partnerships with other developing countries. We can observe the revival of relations from the 2000s between Russia and Mali. Indeed, Russia, under the influence of Vladimir Putin, began to reaffirm its interest in Africa, and visits by Russian officials to Mali took place. These meetings often focused on security issues and economic cooperation, although trade exchanges remain limited.
COUP D’ÉTAT AU MALI EN 2021
The 2021 coup in Mali occurred within the context of a political and security crisis that has struck the country in recent years. A crisis of trust exacerbated since 2012, Mali has experienced political turmoil and an armed insurgency in the north, worsened by the arrival of jihadist groups. President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta, elected in 2013, faced increasing criticism regarding his management of security and corruption within the government. Popular Protests: In 2020, massive demonstrations took place, orchestrated by the M5-RFP (June 5 Movement – Gathering of Patriotic Forces), a coalition of opposition parties and religious groups. These protests culminated in June and July 2020, demanding Keïta’s resignation. On May 24, 2021[2], soldiers led by Colonel Assimi Goïta arrested President Bah N’Daw, who had been appointed to lead a transition after the 2020 coup, as well as Prime Minister Moctar Ouane. The military justified this coup by citing the government’s inability to manage the security crisis and the political situation [3]. The international community, including ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), condemned the coup and called for the restoration of constitutional order. ECOWAS imposed economic and diplomatic sanctions, suspending Mali from its decision-making bodies.[4]
Establishment of a New Authority
After the coup d’état, Assimi Goïta was proclaimed president of the transition. He promised to continue the fight against terrorism and to reform political institutions. However, his rise to power raised concerns about the sustainability of the democratic transition. Appointing a new government was therefore one of Goïta’s immediate priorities, and he formed a new government in June 2021, but it faced strong criticism from international bodies.
Relations with Russia after coups
The coup d’état paved the way for a strengthening of ties between Mali and Russia. After taking power, the new regime expressed its interest in military partnerships with Russia at a time when relations with Western countries were strained due to the ongoing military intervention. Military Engagement: Discussions were initiated regarding the deployment of Russian mercenaries, including members of the Wagner Group, to support the Malian armed forces in their fight against terrorism.[5]
FIGHTING TERRORISM AND MUTUAL BENEFITS
Military relations between Russia and Mali have intensified in recent years, especially after the coups d’état of 2020 and 2021. This cooperation has not only been beneficial for both countries but has also had a positive impact on regional security, particularly through the Sahel States Alliance.
Strengthened Military Cooperation
Russia has offered military training to the Malian armed forces, providing programs tailored to the specific needs of the country in the fight against terrorism. This has improved the operational skills of Malian soldiers in the field. At the same time, Russia has supplied modern weaponry, including armored vehicles, artillery systems, and ammunition. These supplies have been essential for enhancing the response capabilities of Malian forces against jihadist threats [6].
Strategic Partnerships
Bilateral agreements have been signed between Russia and Mali to formalize this cooperation. These agreements aim to establish a long-term framework for collaboration, allowing for ongoing security assistance. Military cooperation also includes the exchange of information on security threats in the region, enabling a more coordinated and effective response to armed groups [7]. This partnership has allowed Mali to strengthen its intelligence system, which was sorely lacking resources during and even after France’s withdrawal.[8]
Mutual Benefits
Strengthening Sovereignty: By diversifying its military partnerships, Mali has been able to reduce its dependence on Western powers. This has allowed the country to enhance its national sovereignty and better control its military operations. Cooperation with Russia has directly contributed to increasing the effectiveness of counter-terrorism operations and, more broadly, against jihadist groups that threaten the stability of Mali and the region.
For Russia, this partnership represents an opportunity to strengthen its influence in Africa, particularly in a strategic region like the Sahel. This allows Russia to position itself as a key player in African affairs. Access to Resources: Military cooperation also paves the way for economic opportunities, particularly in the mining and energy sectors, where Russia could become more involved in projects in Mali.
Ukraine, a Terrorist State?
The accusation that Ukraine could be considered a terrorist state stems from its proven support [9] for rebels during attacks against the Malian army on Saturday, July 27, when a convoy of the Malian army and its Russian allies from the Wagner Group fell into an ambush by the separatist terrorist rebels of the Strategic Framework for the Defense of the People of Azawad (CSP-DPA) near Tin Zaouatine [10]. This support raises fundamental questions about the legitimacy of Ukraine’s actions in the international context. First, Ukraine’s assistance to armed groups can be interpreted as interference in the internal affairs of another sovereign state, which violates the principles of international law. By supporting rebel factions, Ukraine contributes to destabilizing Mali, thereby exacerbating an already complex conflict. Second, by acting in this manner, Ukraine reinforces the notion that states can use unconventional means to achieve their political objectives, which could be perceived as a form of state terrorism. [11] This behavior endangers regional and global security, as it encourages other countries to adopt similar tactics.
Impact on Regional Security
Mali, in cooperation with Russia, is part of a broader regional dynamic, particularly through the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)[12], which aims to promote collective security. This alliance brings together several countries in the region to address terrorist threats and instability. The military cooperation between Mali and Russia supports the AES’s efforts by facilitating joint operations and the exchange of best practices among the armed forces of member countries. [13]
Stabilization of the Region
Reduction of Violence: Joint efforts to combat terrorism have led to a decrease in attacks in certain areas, contributing to greater stability. Although challenges remain, Russo-Malian military initiatives have created a safer environment for the population. The military rapprochement between Mali and Russia has also encouraged other countries in the region to strengthen their own defense capabilities, thereby fostering a cooperative security environment.[14]
ECONOMIC RELATIONS BETWEEN RUSSIA AND MALI
Economic relations between Russia and Mali have seen notable development in recent years, particularly in the fields of mining, energy, and agriculture. This cooperation is marked by initiatives aimed at strengthening trade exchanges and attracting investments.
Trade Exchanges
According to data from the Russian Ministry of Trade and Industry, the volume of trade between Russia and Mali reached a significant level in 2021, with a notable increase compared to previous years. Russian exports to Mali mainly include military equipment, chemicals, and machinery. In contrast, Mali exports agricultural and mining products to Russia, including gold and cotton.
Mali is one of the largest gold producers in Africa; in 2022, the country produced approximately 50 tons of gold, and Russian companies have already expressed interest in investing in mining, but especially in energy, with an agreement concluded between ROSATOM and Mali for the future construction of a nuclear power plant to meet the enormous energy needs. [15]
Russian Investments in Mali
Agricultural cooperation is also expanding, with Russia expressing its interest in developing agricultural projects in Mali aimed at improving food production and introducing new agricultural technologies, knowing well how globally recognized Russian expertise is in massive fertilizer production. Russian companies are participating in infrastructure projects in Mali, including the construction of roads and bridges. According to the Russia-Africa Economic Forum of 2019 [16], Russia planned to invest significantly. The exchanges also include training programs for Malian professionals in various sectors, facilitating the transfer of technologies and skills. According to a World Bank study, Russian investments could contribute to a growth of 1 to 2% in Mali’s GDP in the coming years.
POLITICAL-DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS BETWEEN RUSSIA AND MALI
The political-diplomatic relations between Russia and Mali have been marked by numerous developments since the military came to power in Mali in 2021, as well as by Russia’s entry into the war in Ukraine in 2022. These events have redefined the geopolitical dynamics between the two countries, highlighting common interests and strengthened cooperation.
Arrival of the Military in Power in Mali After the coup d’état in May 2021, Colonel Assimi Goïta took power and promised to restore security and implement political reforms, especially after the pressures and sanctions imposed by sub-regional organizations like ECOWAS.[17] This transition led to a rapprochement with non-Western partners, notably Russia, which has been seen as a strategic ally. Russia has consistently expressed its support for the new Malian regime, thereby strengthening diplomatic ties[18], the two countries have agreed to work together on security and development issues.
Impact of the Special Military Operation in Ukraine
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 led to international sanctions against Moscow. Mali, under Goïta’s regime, chose to maintain friendly relations with Russia, thus defying Western pressures. Mali has supported Russia’s positions on the international stage, notably by avoiding condemning Russian actions at international forums. This approach has strengthened mutual support between the two countries in a context of geopolitical tensions.[19] However, we can note that on a broader level, there is reluctance from many African countries, including state actors like Senegal and Cameroon, which has greatly surprised the Western world, especially within Francophone African networks.
Official Visits and Meetings
Russian delegations have visited Mali several times since 2021, aiming to strengthen diplomatic relations. In 2023, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Mali, where he met with his counterpart and Malian officials to discuss cooperation in security and economic development.[20] This marked a first in the relations between the two countries, allowing for a more visible and limitless strengthening of ties. Mali has also participated in international forums where Russia is a key player, enhancing diplomatic exchanges, including discussions on regional security and the fight against terrorism.[21]
Bilateral Agreements
Several agreements have been signed between Mali and Russia, covering areas such as security, energy [22], and agriculture. These agreements reflect the willingness of both countries to deepen their cooperation in strategic fields. Russia has promised ongoing support to Mali in the fight against terrorism, providing not only military assistance but also advice on governance and crisis management.[23]
Mali could become a foothold for Russia in West Africa, thereby facilitating Russian influence on the continent and providing Mali with support against internal and regional challenges, primarily in terms of security. Mali’s balancing policy, which seeks to diversify its partnerships while strengthening ties with Russia, could offer better resilience in the face of future crises. This would allow Mali to maintain a certain independence while benefiting from strategic support from a sometimes non-Western partner like Türkiye.
Relations between Russia and Mali have undergone a spectacular revitalization since 2021, especially after the military came to power. This partnership, based on mutual interests and strategic goals, has intensified in key areas such as security, economy, and diplomacy. Mali’s willingness to diversify its alliances, coupled with Russia’s unwavering support in the face of geopolitical crises, has forged a limitless cooperation. The rapidly growing trade exchanges and bilateral agreements in mining and energy reflect a promising future. As Mali strives to stabilize its internal situation, Russian support proves crucial for strengthening security and fostering economic development. Together, these two nations are paving the way for a new era of collaboration that could redefine dynamics in West Africa. The synergy between Moscow and Bamako is not only a reflection of their respective ambitions but also a symbol of resilience in a constantly evolving world.