The United States has accused Russia of contributing to the deteriorating security situation in Mali, labeling Moscow an “ineffective partner” as terrorist groups make further gains in their attacks across the West African nation.
A U.S. government official told Voice of America that the United States hopes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—which form the Alliance of Sahel States—will succeed in overcoming terrorism.
The official stated that Russia bears responsibility for the worsening security situation, noting its maintenance of a paramilitary force known as the “Africa Corps” (formerly the Wagner Group) in Mali and the other two nations.
In an email, the official remarked that Russia “has proven to be an ineffective security partner for Mali.”
The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, added: “We hope other African nations take note of Russia’s poor track record in combating terrorism.”