Mali’s military ruler, General Assimi Goita, met with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Monday, affirming his intention to “reinforce” cooperation with Russia, a key ally in Mali’s fight against jihadist insurgency.
Since seizing power through successive coups in 2020 and 2021, Goita has pivoted away from France and deepened Mali’s partnership with Moscow.
The visit, commencing Sunday and extending into the week, comes amid ongoing efforts by the junta to strengthen ties and secure external support.
“I am convinced this visit will be an occasion to reinforce our relations,” Goita told Putin during their meeting at the Kremlin.
The general emphasized Mali’s eagerness to broaden collaboration across multiple sectors, stating his goal to expand cooperation in “defence, transport, and the economy”.
President Putin reciprocated, expressing enthusiasm about the bilateral prospects:
“There are good prospects (for developing ties) in natural resources, energy, logistics,” he said.
During a symbolic wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Kremlin wall on June 23, Goita’s commitment to the partnership was prominently showcased.
Accompanying Goita were Mali’s defence minister Sadio Camara and their foreign minister; on the Russian side, top officials such as Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev, Deputy Defence Minister Yunnus-bek Yevkurov, and Foreign Minister also attended.
In a parallel session, Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov held separate talks with Camara.
“The priority task of our partnership is to achieve practical results in enhancing security and sovereignty. This approach is the key to any success and victory,” Belousov remarked following their discussions.
Goita’s visit arrives in the wake of Mali’s formal withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) earlier this year, a move also made by Niger and Burkina Faso.
The departure has marked a strategic shift for the junta in regional alliances.
Notably, Russia’s Wagner Group, which had provided paramilitary support to Mali’s army since 2021, recently announced its withdrawal.
It will be succeeded by the Russian-backed Africa Corps, continuing Moscow’s military presence on the ground.
