Russia reacts to Mali terror attacks, alleges militants trained by Western security agencies

Africa, International

BAMAKO, Mali (NPA) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia has reacted to Saturday’s coordinated terrorist attacks in the Mali, alleging that some of the armed groups involved may have received training from Western security agencies.

In a statement released on Sunday, Moscow said that on April 25, armed anti-government groups carried out a series of coordinated assaults targeting the capital, Bamako, as well as key regions including Mopti, Gao and Kidal.

The attacks were reportedly led by militants linked to Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), alongside Tuareg separatist fighters from the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). Russian authorities stated that approximately 250 militants attempted to storm the Bamako-Sénou International Airport and a nearby military installation.

According to the statement, the Malian Armed Forces successfully repelled the assault and have since launched follow-up operations aimed at neutralising the attackers and restoring security in affected areas. Moscow further claimed that the militants “may have been trained by Western security agencies,” though it did not provide evidence to substantiate the allegation.

Russia expressed deep concern over the escalation, warning that the attacks pose a direct threat to the stability of Mali and the wider Sahel region, as  terrorist networks continue to maintain a presence across several countries, including Nigeria, where groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province remain active.

The Russian Embassy in Mali confirmed that no Russian nationals were reported among the victims, adding that the mission is in contact with Malian authorities and closely monitoring the situation on the ground.

The Foreign Ministry advised Russian citizens to avoid travel to Mali, citing ongoing security risks. Those currently in the country were urged to exercise heightened caution and adhere strictly to safety guidelines issued by local authorities.

“Moscow will continue to closely monitor developments and coordinate with partners to address emerging security challenges,” the statement added.

Saturday’s attacks highlight the deepening instability in Mali, where insurgent and separatist groups have stepped up operations despite ongoing counterterrorism efforts by national forces and international partners. The Malian government has frequently accused Western powers, particularly France, of aiding the militants by providing arms and intelligence to undermine its security apparatus. France has consistently denied these allegations, insisting it is not working with any group to destabilize the region.