ABUJA — The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a strong condemnation of foreign interference linked to recent attacks in northern Mali, particularly criticizing the involvement of Ukrainian soldiers.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the regional body expressed “strong disapproval and condemnation” of any external interference that threatens peace and security in West Africa or drags the region into ongoing global geopolitical conflicts. This response comes after incidents in late July where Ukrainian soldiers were reportedly seen operating alongside terrorists in northern Mali, an assertion that has escalated regional tensions.

The ECOWAS Commission also extended its condolences to the people of Mali and denounced the attacks as detrimental to regional stability. The statement highlighted the organization’s ongoing commitment to maintaining peace and security across West Africa amidst growing international complexities.

Following the attacks, Mali took significant diplomatic steps by severing relations with Ukraine, accusing it of collusion with international terrorism and criticizing its leadership as being under foreign influence. This drastic measure underscores the deepening geopolitical rifts and the sensitivity of foreign involvement in local conflicts.

The backdrop to this controversy includes the departure of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS in January 2024. These nations argued that the organization was under Western influence and had failed to provide adequate support in their fight against terrorism, marking a significant shift in regional alignments and strategies.