Mali’s military ruler, General Assimi Goita, arrived in Russia on Sunday for a high-level visit aimed at deepening strategic cooperation between the two countries, as the West African nation faces escalating insurgent violence.
Goita’s trip marks a continuation of Mali’s pivot away from Western alliances, particularly with former colonial power France, in favor of stronger ties with Moscow, following the country’s 2020 and 2021 military coups that brought his junta to power.
The visit comes shortly after the announcement of the withdrawal of Russia’s Wagner paramilitary group from Mali. Wagner had been assisting Mali’s armed forces on the ground since 2021. In its place, a newly established Kremlin-linked entity, Africa Corps, is set to take over its operations.
Despite widespread reports linking both Wagner and Africa Corps to Russia’s geopolitical ambitions in Africa, the Kremlin continues to deny direct involvement with the mercenary outfits.
Upon arriving in Moscow, General Goita is expected to meet with President Vladimir Putin on Monday, according to Mali’s state broadcaster ORTM. The visit, which runs through June 26, will focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation in key sectors such as security, energy, and transportation.
Mali remains gripped by a multi-faceted insurgency that began in 2012, involving extremist groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. These groups have intensified their attacks in recent months, targeting military bases, checkpoints, and civilians, exacerbating ethnic tensions and weakening state control across vast regions of the country.
As violence surges, Goita’s administration continues to seek new alliances and military support, with Russia emerging as its most prominent international partner.Tools
