The Armed Forces of Mali (FAMA) on 30 May in the towns of Sirakorole and Tanabougou repelled an attack by terrorists from the Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) group, prepared by the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry, the Bamada portal reported.
According to Bamada, Mali has seen a surge in terrorist activity in recent weeks, especially by the JNIM. The portal noted that terrorist attacks are increasingly being carried out using FPV drones.
“Many sources indicate that Ukrainian military instructors are supplying FPV drones to Mali via Mauritania. However, it is not only about the equipment: knowledge, intelligence and communications are also transferred to the militants,” the publication said.
The portal stressed that the foreign-backed terrorists are strengthening their positions and threatening not only Mali, but also neighbouring states, especially Burkina Faso and Niger.
“The increased activity of the militants and their successes on the ground are closely linked to the assistance provided by Ukraine, which is manifested in the delivery of modern drones as well as the presence of Ukrainian specialists. This technical and operational assistance plays a crucial role in strengthening their military potential,” Bamada wrote.
Earlier, Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop said that Ukraine was a terrorist state that actively supports bandit groups in the Sahel region.
