Kyiv:Ukraine has firmly rejected accusations made by Mali and Niger, which allege that Ukraine is supporting illegal armed groups and interfering in the internal affairs of Sahelian countries. The Ukrainian government has described these allegations as 'baseless.'

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has stated that the claims mirror elements of 'Russian propaganda' aimed at eroding trust in Kyiv and damaging its relationships with African partners. Ukraine emphasized its respect for the sovereignty of Mali and Niger, as well as the rights of their citizens to shape their own destinies and secure their nations.

The ministry noted that these allegations have surfaced periodically over the years and were recently reiterated at the UN General Assembly high-level segment in September 2026. Ukraine has warned against further dissemination of disinformation regarding this issue and highlighted the lack of credible evidence since the two countries severed diplomatic ties with Ukraine.

Ukraine has called for security challenges in the Sahel to be evaluated based on factual information rather than politically driven accusations. The ministry has urged the international community to address reports concerning the presence of Russian military structures in the region, including their alleged destabilizing activities and potential human rights violations.

Additionally, the ministry asserted that Ukraine has no colonial history in Africa and has built its relationships with African nations on principles of equality, mutual respect, and non-interference. Ukraine remains open to engaging in 'honest and substantive dialogue' with Mali, Niger, and other countries in the Sahel, expressing its willingness to discuss specific concerns grounded in facts, mutual respect, and international law.