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Mali has severed diplomatic relations with Ukraine, accusing Ukraine of supporting a rebel attack that resulted in the deaths of Malian soldiers and Wagner Group mercenaries.

Let’s bring you up to speed: Last week, a deadly attack by Tuareg-led separatists in northern Mali left 84 Russian Wagner Group mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers dead. This confrontation marked one of the heaviest losses for the Wagner Group in West Africa since they began supporting Mali’s military two years ago. Malian authorities have accused Ukraine of involvement, claiming that a Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson admitted to supplying the rebels with the information needed for the attack.

What Mali is saying: In a statement, Colonel Abdoulaye Maïga, spokesperson for the Malian transitional government, said Ukraine’s actions “violate Mali’s sovereignty and goes beyond the scope of foreign interference and constitute support for international terrorism. [We will take the] necessary measures to prevent any destabilization of Mali from African states, particularly from Ukrainian embassies located in the sub-region, with terrorists disguised as diplomats.”

What Ukraine is saying: In a statement, Ukraine’s foreign ministry said, “The decision of the Transitional Government of the Republic of Mali to break off diplomatic relations with Ukraine is short-sighted and hasty, given the fact that Ukraine, as victim of an unprovoked full-scale armed aggression of the Russian Federation.” They added, “Ukraine unconditionally adheres to the norms of international law, the inviolability of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other countries, and resolutely rejects the accusations of the Transitional Government of Mali of alleged “Ukraine’s support for international terrorism.”

Why is Wagner in Mali?: The Wagner Group, a Russian paramilitary organization, has been in Mali for two years, supporting the military against insurgents after the expulsion of French forces and the UN. Wagner provides security, military training, and engages in combat operations against militants. According to some, this is part of Russia’s broader strategy to expand its influence in Africa, often funding operations through the exploitation of natural resources like gold.