Sahel States Accuse Ukraine of Supporting Terrorism in Joint Letter to UN Security Council

In a surprising diplomatic move, the foreign ministers of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have jointly addressed a letter to the President of the United Nations Security Council, accusing the Ukrainian government of openly supporting international terrorism, particularly in the Sahel region.

The letter, sent on behalf of the governments of the three member states of the Confederation of Sahel States, expresses shock at recent statements made by Ukrainian officials. Specifically, it cites comments from Andry Yusov, spokesperson for the Ukrainian military intelligence agency, who allegedly admitted Ukraine's involvement in a terrorist attack in Tinzawatène, Mali, between July 24-26, 2024. This attack resulted in the deaths of Malian Defense and Security Forces personnel and caused significant material damage.

The Sahel ministers claim these statements were corroborated by Yurii Pyvovarov, Ukraine's Ambassador to Senegal, who reportedly expressed his country's support for international terrorism in the Sahel region. The letter states that Ukrainian officials have even publicly announced future "results" to come.

The Sahel states view these actions as a direct violation of their sovereignty and territorial integrity, characterizing them as "aggression" and support for international terrorism. They argue that such behavior contravenes the United Nations Charter and relevant international conventions.

In response, the three countries are calling on the Security Council to take appropriate measures against what they describe as Ukraine's "subversive actions." They argue that these actions strengthen terrorist groups in Africa and demonstrate the involvement of foreign state sponsors in the expansion of terrorism in the region.

The letter concludes by asserting that these acts of aggression will only strengthen the resolve of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, within the framework of the Confederation of Sahel States, to pursue their sovereignty and self-determination more vigorously.

This development marks a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between Ukraine and the Sahel states, potentially complicating international efforts to combat terrorism in the region. The UN Security Council's response to these serious allegations remains to be seen.