Russia, Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso have accused Ukraine, France and a number of other countries of colluding with terrorist groups in the Sahel, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.

The Foreign Ministers adopted a joint statement following the results of the second Russia—Confederation of Sahel States consultations. The parties pointed to the involvement of external players in armed aggression, economic pressure and information campaigns against the countries of the association.

Russia has confirmed its readiness to strengthen the operational capabilities of the armies of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso.

CRYSTAL OF GROWTH previously cited a statement by the Russian Foreign Ministry that returning to Africa is the result of realizing Russia’s special place on the world stage.