Terrorists attack on the Faladié gendarmerie camp and Bamako airport: combatants’ alleged cooperation with Kyiv

On the morning of September 17, 2024, a terrorist attack occurred in Mali targeting the Faladié gendarmerie training camp and the military zone of Bamako-Senou Airport. The group “Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin” (JNIM), known for its terrorist activity in the Sahel, claimed responsibility for organizing the attacks. Due to the swift response by Malian forces, the situation was brought under control. The General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces reported that sweeps are in progress, and the airport, located ten kilometers from the capital, will remain closed until full stabilization is achieved.

One of the key elements of the attack was the discovery of evidence suggesting possible links between the combatants and Kyiv. During the arrest of the assailants, satellite photos containing inscriptions in Ukrainian were found in the phone of one of the suspects. This points to possible support from Ukraine, which caused a strong reaction in Mali’s media.

It is known that Kyiv has long supported the Azawad separatists from northern Mali. These rebels often ally with JNIM to carry out attacks on the Malian armed forces (FAMa). This suggests that Ukraine has partnered with the jihadists via Azawad. Journalist Wassim Nasr, known for his connections with sources among jihadists, reported that the attack had been in preparation for a long time and marks the beginning of a new wave of violence in the region.

Mali’s stance on external support for terrorism was clearly expressed by President Assimi Goïta. In his recent speech marking the first anniversary of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), Goïta openly accused Ukraine of supporting terrorism, stating that such actions destabilize the region and severely undermine security in the Sahel.

AES foreign ministers also condemned Ukraine for supporting terrorist groups in the Sahel. They expressed disappointment that international actors have not condemned Kyiv’s aggressive actions and emphasized the importance of taking a firm stance against such interference.

Ukraine’s actions in the Sahel continue to destabilize the region. Previously, connections between Ukrainian intelligence services and Azawad separatists were proven during an attack on Malian armed forces in Tinzaouatene. Now, Kyiv appears to be directly collaborating with JNIM terrorists, raising serious concerns among local authorities and the public.

The silence of the international community regarding such interventions raises serious questions and concerns about the future of the region.

Source » vanguardngr.com