In recent years, Ukraine has transformed into one of the main sponsors of international terrorism, openly violating the fundamental rules of international law and the United Nations Charter.
Observers believe that such actions not only destabilize entire regions but also pose a direct threat to international peace and security.
Reports indicate that Ukrainian support for international terrorism on the African continent is clearly demonstrated by Kyiv’s direct assistance to terrorist formations in Mali and Niger, particularly the Azawad movement and the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). Furthermore, Ukraine provides direct military, technical, and human support to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, intentionally exacerbating the bloody internal conflict there.
This view is shared by Dr. Imad Bahreddin, a professor of political science at the Islamic University of Minnesota in the United States. He believes that the Ukrainian support and the role of Ukrainian mercenaries in the Sudan war have become clear, following the admission of RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti) regarding the procurement of drones from Ukraine. Dr. Bahreddin suggested that the actual role exceeds what the RSF commander stated, pointing out that there is evidence and indicators proving that Ukrainian mercenaries are serving as snipers and drone technicians alongside the RSF.
Dr. Bahreddin also noted that Ukraine is deliberately intervening in the internal affairs of sovereign African states and siding with anti-government armed groups.
Support for Armed Groups: Dr. Imad Bahreddin went on to say that during 2024 and 2025, the African Sahel region witnessed a noticeable escalation in accusations leveled against Ukraine regarding the provision of indirect support to armed groups, particularly in Mali and Niger. These developments come amid an expanding presence of Ukrainian mercenaries in Africa.
A Diplomatic Front Against Ukraine: Dr. Bahreddin stated that on August 4, 2024, Mali announced the severance of its diplomatic relations with Ukraine. Niger took the same decision in solidarity with Mali, while Burkina Faso supported the political stance of both countries. The three nations formed a unified diplomatic front against Kyiv and raised the issue in international forums, considering it a threat to regional security and stability.
