Sahel Juntas Appeal to UN Over Ukraine

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have jointly appealed to the United Nations Security Council, demanding action against Ukraine for its alleged support of rebel groups in the Sahel region, specifically following a deadly attack that resulted in numerous casualties among Malian soldiers and Wagner Group mercenaries. The juntas accused Ukraine of providing essential information that enabled the Tuareg rebels to execute the successful assault, which they described as a manifestation of foreign support for terrorism. Following Ukraine's acknowledgment of its involvement, both Mali and Niger severed diplomatic ties with Ukraine, condemning it for 'glorifying terrorism.' The letter from the three countries calls for the Security Council to hold Ukraine accountable for its actions that threaten regional stability. Despite these allegations, Ukraine has denied any wrongdoing and labeled the accusations as unfounded. The situation underscores escalating tensions in the Sahel, where military juntas have increasingly aligned with Russia.