Lavrov Denies Abuses by Russian Forces in Africa, Offers to Mediate Between Algeria and Mali

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday rejected allegations of abuses by Russian forces in Africa’s Sahel region and expressed Moscow’s readiness to mediate between Algeria and Mali to ease bilateral tensions.

Speaking at a press conference, as reported by the Russian news agency Sputnik, Lavrov was asked about alleged “massacres” committed by the African Corps (formerly known as Wagner) in northern Mali against the Azawad population

on behalf of the Malian junta. The minister firmly denied these accusations, emphasizing that the Russian unit operates in Mali “at the request of the country’s legitimate authorities” and “does not target civilians or civilian sites.”

On the subject of strained relations between Algiers and Bamako, Lavrov said: “We are aware of the tensions that exist between our Algerian and Malian friends.” He attributed these frictions to the “colonial past” of both countries, adding that Moscow remains “in contact with both sides” and is “ready to help ease tensions.”

The Russian diplomat further argued that the root of Africa’s crises lies in “colonial divisions” that “revived ethnic affiliations.” He clarified that the crisis between Algeria and Mali is not about borders but rather “an internal crisis in Mali,” stemming from the country’s military rulers’ unilateral withdrawal from the Algiers peace accord nearly two years ago.

Lavrov also criticized the “artificial borders” drawn across the continent, noting that while the African Union once considered redrawing them, it abandoned the idea to prevent potential conflicts—a decision he described as “wise.”

Meanwhile, the Azawad movement has condemned the transfer of Wagner forces to Mali, calling it “a continuation of the same brutal approach” marked by “systematic human rights violations and repression.” The movement said the move reflects “the impasse in which the Malian junta finds itself, with no vision for development.”

The 2015 Algiers Agreement, which had brought temporary calm between the Malian government and Azawad rebels, has since unraveled following the military junta’s refusal to uphold its commitments, reigniting tensions in northern Mali.