Mali’s military strongman, General Assimi Goita, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on Monday, expressing his desire to “reinforce” ties with Moscow during his multi-day visit to Russia.
Under General Goita, who seized power through coups in 2020 and 2021, the West African nation has distanced itself from its former colonial power, France, in favour of closer relations with Russia.
Goita’s visit comes as Mali continues to grapple with a significant terrorist threat.
“I am convinced this visit will be an occasion to reinforce our relations,” Goita told Putin, indicating a wish to expand cooperation in “defence, transport, and the economy.”
Putin welcomed the Malian leader, expressing “great pleasure” and noting “good prospects” for developing ties in “natural resources, energy, and logistics.”
The discussions were attended by Russia’s energy minister, Sergei Tsivilev; deputy defence minister, Yunnus-bek Yevkurov; and the foreign ministers of both countries.
Goita’s visit occurs shortly after Russia’s Wagner group, which had assisted the Malian army since 2021, announced its departure from the country, to be replaced by its successor, Africa Corps.
