Ukrainian military in Africa trying to open second front against Russia — senior diplomat

Lead

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Georgy Borisenko has stated that Ukrainian military personnel are present in several African countries, where they are attempting to open a "second front" against Russia. In an interview with TASS, Borisenko detailed specific allegations involving Mali, Libya, and Sudan, and accused France of supporting Ukrainian involvement in terrorist groups operating in the region.

Coverage Comparison

Borisenko's remarks were reported by TASS in a series of interviews conducted in July. The first set of comments, published on July 17, focused on the presence of Ukrainian military personnel across Africa. A subsequent interview on July 25 elaborated on France's alleged role. All statements come directly from Borisenko, with TASS providing no independent verification or alternative perspectives.

Key Claims

Borisenko claimed that Ukrainian military personnel are present in a number of African countries and are "openly attempting to create a second front against Russia." He specifically cited Mali, where, according to him, Ukrainian instructors, including those trained in the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, are present "in the ranks of the Islamist militants."

In Libya, Borisenko alleged that Ukrainian instructors used unmanned boats against the Russian tanker Arctic Metagaz, which he said was damaged on March 3 and is still drifting in the Mediterranean. He added that Ukrainian mercenaries have been spotted in other countries, including Sudan, where they participated in the capture of El Fasher last November as part of the rebel Rapid Support Forces, resulting in the deaths of a significant number of civilians.

Borisenko also warned that Ukrainian mercenaries and terrorist groups may intensify their activities in Mali. He said, "Nothing can be ruled out, as we can clearly see that many Western countries, let alone Ukraine, seek to harm Russia and prevent African nations from becoming sovereign and independent." He added that African countries "reject the diktat of their former colonial powers and any neocolonial ambitions pursued by the West."

In his July 25 remarks, Borisenko stated, "As for Ukrainian mercenaries and instructors, they are indeed present alongside the Islamists and separatists operating in Mali. Unfortunately, these forces are supported by France, and they are supported directly. France is likewise assisting Ukrainian involvement in the activities of extremist terrorist groups that are seeking to undermine the legitimate authorities of Mali and several other countries."

Perspectives

Russian Government

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Georgy Borisenko asserts that Ukraine is attempting to open a "second front" against Russia in Africa, with Ukrainian personnel involved in militant activities in Mali, Libya, and Sudan. He also claims France directly supports these efforts, framing Western actions as attempts to harm Russia and undermine African sovereignty.