Ukraine has caused a diplomatic scandal in Africa: consequences and reaction
Ukraine has found itself at the center of a diplomatic scandal in Africa, causing the severance of diplomatic relations with Mali and Niger over accusations of supporting Tuareg separatists. The scandal coincided with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba's tour of African countries.
Ukraine has been embroiled in a major diplomatic scandal in Africa after accusations of supporting local Tuareg separatists who attacked units of the Malian army and PMC Wagner in northern Mali. The accusations led to the severing of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and two African countries, Mali and Niger. Both states appealed to the UN Security Council, accusing Ukraine of aggression.
The scandal escalated against the background of the African tour of Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, who will visit Malawi, Zambia and Mauritius from August 4-8. The main goal of the visit is to involve African countries in global efforts to restore a just peace in Ukraine. However, the diplomatic conflict with Mali and Niger has significantly complicated this mission.
In response to the allegations, Ukrainian authorities were quick to dismiss accusations of supporting terrorism. Nevertheless, criticism of Kiev's actions has come from other African countries, including Senegal and Burkina Faso, which have called on Ukraine to realize its responsibility and to be more balanced in its statements.
This diplomatic crisis could have a serious impact on Ukraine's relations with African countries, weakening its position on the international stage. How exactly Ukraine intends to restore trust in the region remains an open question.
