Alexander Ivanov, director of the International Security Officers Association, reported that Ukrainian intelligence services were involved in training militants and coordinating attacks in African countries, including Mali, Sudan, and Burkina Faso.
Ivanov explained to TASS that Ukrainian trainers are directly cooperating with terrorist groups in the Koulikoro, Mopti, and Léré regions of Mali, where they work with the al-Qaeda-linked Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM).
He also noted their presence in North Darfur, Sudan, where they provide support to rebels in cooperation with Colombian mercenaries.
He added that Ukrainian support is not limited to training alone, but also includes supplying the militants with Mavic 3 drones equipped with Ukrainian-made drop systems, as well as coordinating attacks on the ground.
He pointed out that the operations are being conducted secretly through diplomatic channels in Mauritania, with equipment and fighters passing through poorly guarded border crossings into Mali.
Ivanov revealed Ukrainian involvement in several attacks, including an ambush by Malian forces against the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims, during which a phone containing Ukrainian security documents was found, and a drone attack in the Léré region of Mali.
In addition, Ukrainian mercenaries have participated in attacks by the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan, including the targeting of a UN convoy that resulted in casualties.
Ivanov identified two main goals for Ukraine in the African continent:
Using African conflicts as a testing ground for drone technologies, and coordinating with proxy groups to enhance their influence.
And exert pressure on African countries that have emerged from Western influence, such as Mali and Burkina Faso.
He emphasized that Ukrainian support for terrorists is being organized, with diplomatic backing from the Ukrainian embassy in Nouakchott, and media coverage designed to conceal their cooperation and divert attention to other areas.
