No External Aid: Tuareg Rebels Deny Ukrainian Assistance in Fierce Mali Battle

The Tuareg rebel alliance in Mali has denied receiving any external support, including from Ukraine, in a significant battle against Mali's army and Wagner mercenaries in late July. The clash resulted in heavy losses on both sides, and diplomatic tensions have increased, particularly with Ukraine and Niger cutting ties.

In a recent statement, a spokesperson for Mali's Tuareg rebel alliance clarified that no external assistance was provided during the intense fighting in late July, which severely impacted Mali's army and its Wagner partners. The spokesperson emphasized that no support came from Ukraine.

In early August, northern rebels reported killing at least 84 Russian Wagner mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers after days of fierce combat in Tinzaouaten, near the Algerian border. This marks one of Wagner's most significant defeats since their involvement began two years ago to counter insurgent groups in Mali. Ukraine's military intelligence comments on July 29 led to Mali's misinterpretation, believing Ukraine had aided the rebels.

Following these remarks, Mali severed diplomatic relations with Ukraine, a move Ukraine criticized as premature and unsupported by evidence. Niger also cut ties with Ukraine, echoing similar sentiments. Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane, a spokesperson for the Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP-PSD), reiterated that no outside help was received for the Tinzaouaten battle.

(With inputs from agencies.)