In a significant diplomatic move, Mali’s government has summoned Sweden’s ambassador to Bamako, demanding that he leave the country within 72 hours. This decision follows remarks made by Sweden’s Minister for International Development Cooperation and Trade, Johan Forssell, who announced that Sweden would phase out its development aid to Mali. Forssell stated that it is unacceptable for Mali to support Russia’s actions in Ukraine while simultaneously receiving substantial aid from Sweden. This incident highlights the escalating tensions between Mali and Western nations amidst a broader geopolitical shift in the Sahel region.
The order for the ambassador's expulsion comes just days after Forssell's comments, which were made in response to Mali's recent decision to sever diplomatic ties with Ukraine over the ongoing conflict. Forssell's spokesperson clarified that the decision to reduce aid had been made in December, but the timing of the announcement has intensified the diplomatic fallout. The Swedish government had previously committed hundreds of millions of crowns annually in development assistance to Mali, but this support is now being reevaluated in light of Mali’s foreign policy decisions.
Mali’s pivot away from traditional Western allies, particularly in the context of its military cooperation with Russia, is becoming increasingly evident. The country has faced significant challenges, including unrest driven by armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIL. Since a military coup in 2020, Mali’s leadership has prioritized regaining control over territories affected by violence and instability. The government’s recent actions reflect a broader trend, as military-led states in the region, including Burkina Faso and Niger, seek to strengthen ties with Russia, moving away from previous partnerships with Western nations.
In June, Sweden announced the closure of its embassy in Bamako by the end of 2024, citing deteriorating security conditions in Mali. The Swedish armed forces had previously deployed 220 soldiers to the region as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission, but they are now preparing for withdrawal. This decision follows similar actions by other European nations, such as France, which completed its troop withdrawal from Mali in 2022. The exit of these forces has left a security vacuum that Mali has sought to fill with support from Russian military contractors, including the Wagner Group.
The Wagner Group has been active in Mali since late 2021, providing military assistance and training in exchange for mining and resource contracts. This relationship has raised concerns among international observers regarding the long-term implications for regional stability and human rights. Mali’s military leaders, including Colonel Assimi Goita, have embraced this partnership, asserting that it is essential for national sovereignty and security. In July, the military leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger signed a defense cooperation pact, emphasizing mutual support against external threats.
Despite the strengthening of ties with Russia, it remains uncertain whether these new alliances will effectively address the violence and instability plaguing Mali. The country continues to grapple with armed groups that have made large areas ungovernable. The recent diplomatic tensions with Sweden are symptomatic of a larger shift in Mali’s foreign relations, as it navigates a complex landscape of international alliances and domestic challenges.
As Mali distances itself from Western influence, the implications for humanitarian aid and international support are significant. While Sweden has pledged to continue providing humanitarian assistance, the reduction in development aid may hinder efforts to stabilize the country. The situation in Mali serves as a critical example of how geopolitical shifts can impact local governance and security, raising questions about the future of international cooperation in the region.
