Published on: 01/19/2023 – 18:27
Russia delivered several warplanes and helicopters to Mali on Thursday, according to an AFP correspondent. This new shipment of weapons highlights the rapprochement between the junta in Bamako and Moscow.
Russian Sukhoi Su-25 fighter jets, Czech Albatros L-39 fighters and Soviet-era Mi-8 helicopters were received by Malian authorities on Thursday, January 19, AFP’s Bamako correspondent noted.
According to the news agency, this shipment of military equipment by Russia included at least ten devices. The Malian junta did not provide details on the extent of this new evidence of military support from Moscow.
This is in fact the last shipment of this type to be released by the authorities. Similar transfers had taken place in March and August 2022. The authorities say they will buy the devices, but have never provided any further information, such as the amounts.
The junta, which has been in power since 2020, is accused of bringing the Russian paramilitary group Wagner into the country at the end of 2021, and actions in various countries are being denounced. The military, which has been pushing for a break with France, is in denial, citing a revived long-standing partnership with Russia and its army.
Extending the reach of the Malian army
The chief of staff of the Malian Air Force, Major General Alou Boi Diarra, spoke of a “build-up” during the Russian equipment handover ceremony, which “has almost become routine”.
The equipment supplied is intended to support troops on the ground where the fight against the jihadists is being waged, he said. The junta claims to have regained the initiative against the jihadists. Experts dispute his military proclamations.
The new planes and helicopters are intended to allow the military to expand its radius of action and quickly hit enemies, who are mainly practicing surprise attacks, and retreat before any reaction, the army said.
With AFP