By John Ikani
Niger has severed diplomatic relations with Ukraine, a move that further isolates Kyiv in West Africa.
The military government in Niger justified the action as a show of solidarity with neighbouring Mali, which took a similar step two days earlier.
Both nations cited remarks by a Ukrainian military official suggesting Kyiv’s involvement in the killing of dozens of Malian soldiers last month.
Ukraine has been actively seeking allies in Africa amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, likely as a countermeasure to Moscow’s growing influence on the continent.
A clash between Malian soldiers and separatist rebels, along with Wagner mercenaries, resulted in heavy casualties in late July.
Mali, struggling with severe security challenges, turned to the notorious Wagner group for assistance in 2021.
Following Wagner’s acknowledgement of losses in the July attack, a Ukrainian military intelligence spokesman claimed the rebels received crucial information for the operation.
Mali accused Ukraine of violating its sovereignty in response to the official’s statement and promptly cut diplomatic ties.
Niger followed suit, with its government spokesperson deeming the Ukrainian remarks unacceptable. Senegal also expressed disapproval towards Ukraine.
The Senegalese foreign ministry summoned Ukraine’s ambassador, accusing him of supporting the Malian attack in a since-deleted social media post.
Ukraine has condemned Mali’s decision as hasty and short-sighted, denying any involvement in terrorism. The country also accused Russian-controlled entities of numerous war crimes in African nations.
Russia seized the opportunity to accuse Ukraine of opening a “second front” in Africa, claiming Kyiv is supporting terrorist groups friendly to Moscow.
Recent coups in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have led to the replacement of French and American defence agreements with Russian military support.
While Ukraine seeks to strengthen its African ties, Russia’s popularity on the continent is expanding. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is currently on his fourth visit to Africa in two years.
The potential for other West African countries to follow Niger and Mali’s lead remains uncertain. Burkina Faso, a military-ruled nation allied with Niger and Mali, is closely watched.
The Ukraine-Russia conflict’s impact extends beyond West Africa. Wagner is allegedly backing the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan’s ongoing civil war.
In addition, videos purportedly showing Ukrainian special forces conducting drone strikes against the RSF and Wagner in Sudan have circulated online.
As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine unfolds in Africa, a memorial honouring Wagner fighters killed in the July attack was held in Moscow. Attendees paid tribute to the fallen with flowers and candles.
