Mali Deepens Military Ties with Russia, Receives Advanced Weapons

Mali has solidified its military cooperation with Russia, marked by the recent arrival of advanced military hardware just days after a high-level visit to Moscow by the transitional leader, General Assimi Goïta.

The delivery, which arrived in Bamako this week, comprises modern fighter jets, combat and surveillance drones, heavily armoured vehicles resistant to improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and cutting-edge systems designed to enhance the Malian Armed Forces’ (FAMa) battlefield efficiency.

According to officials, the equipment will be deployed in the ongoing campaign to reclaim and secure territories from terrorist groups operating in the Sahel.

Government sources have hailed the swift delivery as evidence of Russia’s credibility and commitment compared to former Western partners.

“When a partner is sincere, agreements are followed by concrete and quick actions,” a source close to the Ministry of Defence stated. “Here, the material arrives without delay, as soon as the conditions are met.”

Malian authorities have often criticised past collaborations—particularly with France—for what they describe as “slow and bureaucratic” processes, marked by delayed equipment delivery, excessive meetings, and a lack of tangible results on the ground.