Ukraine has denied involvement in the July attack in northern Mali that resulted in the deaths of Malian soldiers and Wagner fighters, labeling Mali’s decision to sever diplomatic ties as “short-sighted and hasty.” Mali’s announcement followed comments by Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s military intelligence, suggesting Ukraine had provided Malian rebels with “necessary” information for the attack. However, Yusov did not confirm that Kyiv was directly involved in the attack. Ukraine’s foreign ministry expressed regret over Mali’s decision, emphasizing Ukraine’s adherence to international law and the sovereignty of nations. The ministry criticized Mali’s move as being made without a thorough investigation and stated that Ukraine reserves the right to respond diplomatically. Mali’s northern Tuareg rebels claimed responsibility for the attack, which killed 84 Wagner mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers, marking Wagner’s heaviest defeat since it began operating in Africa.
SOURCE: VOA NEWS