During his official five-day visit to Moscow, Mali’s transitional President Colonel Assimi Goïta met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kremlin officials confirmed that the two leaders signed a broad cooperation agreement, including provisions for the peaceful use of nuclear energy and the establishment of the Russia-Mali Intergovernmental Trade, Economic, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation Commission.

“Our trade figures remain modest but show a positive trend,” Putin said, adding that promising areas for further cooperation include “geological research, resource development, energy, logistics, and humanitarian projects.”

Strengthening Bilateral Ties Amid Security Shift

Goïta’s visit comes at a critical moment for Mali. The Russian paramilitary group Wagner, long active in Mali and accused of repeated human rights violations, has recently withdrawn. In its place, Russia has deployed a new government-controlled unit known as the Africa Corps. The change signals a more formalized and state-centric Russian presence in Mali.

“Today we confirm the strength of our cooperation with the Russian Federation. All of this demonstrates the effectiveness and trust between our nations.”

President Colonel Assimi Goïta

Goïta’s Moscow trip and the deepening alliance with Russia are also framed by rising jihadist violence in Mali. Recent attacks, including one by al-Qaeda-linked Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) that killed dozens of soldiers, have increased pressure on Mali’s government to bolster its military capabilities. Many Sahel states are now increasingly turning to Moscow for military and technical assistance.

Russia had already announced in early June its intention to expand both military and economic cooperation across Africa, viewing the region as a key strategic partner.