Mali’s transitional government and Russia have signed a comprehensive anti-terrorism pact during a state visit in Moscow. The agreement, finalized during a meeting at the Kremlin between President Vladimir Putin and Malian military leader Assimi Goïta, commits both countries to enhanced cooperation in the fight against terrorism and organized crime.
Under the terms of the agreement, Russia will provide Mali with training, equipment, and structured operational support aimed at strengthening Mali’s national defense and security capabilities. The pact aligns with Mali’s broader strategy of achieving greater sovereignty and autonomy in critical sectors, including security, energy, and development.
This marks a significant shift in Mali’s foreign policy, reflecting the transitional authorities’ decision to elevate ties with Russia to a strategic level. In a symbolic gesture of this deepening partnership, President Putin hosted a formal lunch for President Goïta inside the Kremlin.
The pact also reinforces Mali’s intent to reduce dependence on Western support, following the withdrawal of French forces and the departure of the Wagner mercenaries. In their public remarks, both leaders highlighted the agreement as a key milestone in building Mali’s capacity to confront insurgencies and criminal networks, particularly in the Sahel region.
