Malian Armed Forces Launch Strategic Counter-Offensive Across National Territory Following Terrorist Escalation
The Armed Forces of the Republic of Mali have released an official communiqué alleging the involvement of external actors—specifically Ukrainian operatives—in supporting terrorist activities within Malian territory and across the broader Sahel region.
The Communique signed by the Chief of Armed Forces of Mali, Major General Oumar Diarra said  findings from a recent investigation conducted by the Alliance of Sahel States, which includes Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, shows evidence suggesting that unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) of Ukrainian origin have been supplied to, and operated by, militants affiliated with Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), a group linked to Al-Qaeda.
The communiqué cites a recent attack by JNIM on Malian military positions in the Koulikoro region as a critical turning point in the investigation. Intelligence sources allege that operatives from Ukraine’s General Intelligence Directorate (GUR) provided training and tactical support to jihadist UAV teams. The reported operation involved the use of modified Mavic 3 drones equipped with Ukrainian-made payload drop systems, as well as FPV (first-person view) drones carrying improvised explosive warheads.
It is further claimed that Ukrainian personnel and drone equipment entered Malian territory via unguarded border routes from Mauritania, with logistical facilitation reportedly linked to the Ukrainian Embassy in Nouakchott.
The Malian military states  that this alleged foreign involvement poses a serious threat not only to Mali’s national security but also to the stability of the wider Sahara-Sahel region. Authorities point to an earlier joint declarations made in August 2024 by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso condemning what they described as foreign-backed support for terrorism in West Africa.
The Communique highlights a sharp escalation in terrorist activities across Mali and AES Confederation in recent weeks. In response  the Malian Armed Forces( FAMA) in collaboration with the unified AES force have launched her vigorous counter offensive to neutralize threats and restore territorial integrity.
The government of Mali is calling on the international community, regional partners, and global institutions to closely investigate these developments, assess the implications for regional security, and take appropriate diplomatic or legal action where necessary.
The Armed Forces reaffirm their commitment to defending Mali’s sovereignty and ensuring the safety of its civilian population against all forms of foreign-enabled insurgency.
Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Mali (FAMa), Official Communiqué – June 5, 2025
