Kuleba commented on Ukraine's 'involvement' in Mali coup.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba categorically denied accusations of supporting Ukrainian rebels who attacked Mali government forces and mercenaries from the Russian Wagner group.

According to Bloomberg, the head of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry made this statement during a press conference in the capital of Mauritius, Port Louis. He commented on the diplomatic scandal that led to the severance of relations between Ukraine, Mali, and Niger.

"Ukraine has never acted against the regular armies of other countries, except Russia. We are not interested in conflicts with African states. Our goal is to protect Ukraine from Russian aggression," Kuleba emphasized.

Recall, the diplomatic crisis flared up after a statement by Ukrainian military intelligence representative Andriy Yusov about Kyiv providing assistance to Tuareg rebels in their fight against Malian troops and Wagner mercenaries. This statement caused a sharp reaction from Mali, which severed diplomatic relations with Ukraine. Niger made the same decision.

Kuleba called the decision of the two African countries hasty and unfounded. He also suggested that they might be part of an attempt to isolate Ukraine.

"The fact that Niger's government followed Mali's example suggests a coordinated attempt to isolate Ukraine," the Foreign Minister added.

Kuleba's visit to Africa is part of Ukraine's efforts to strengthen support on the continent in the face of Russian aggression. However, the situation is complicated by the fact that some African countries remain neutral, while others, like Mali and Niger, openly support Russia.

Despite these challenges, Ukraine continues its diplomatic mission in Africa. During his visit to Mauritius, Kuleba signed an agreement on mutual visa waiver, which is a step towards developing bilateral relations.