Statement of the Russian Foreign Ministry On the activity of terrorist groups in Mali

Moscow is seriously concerned about the ongoing terrorist attacks against the authorities, the armed forces, the police and just civilians in Mali. The latest such attacks, which took place in early August in the area of the three borders between Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, according to official data, claimed the lives of 42 Malian soldiers. Another 22 people were injured. In this regard, three days of mourning were declared in Mali. We express our deep condolences to the Malian leadership, the relatives and friends of the victims.

According to official sources, 37 terrorists were killed. At the same time, the Malian authorities noted the coordination of the attacks and their serious preparedness, which, in their opinion, is impossible without external participation.

Unbiased observers also noted that after the withdrawal of the French military, who participated in Operation Barkhan, and the Europeans from Operation Takuba from the territory of Mali, there was a jump in terrorist activity. Moreover, there are elements of consistency in this activity.

In turn, we will continue to provide the legitimate authorities of Mali with multifaceted assistance in the fight against terrorists of all stripes, who have been hindering normal life in this African country for a long time, with which Russia has traditionally friendly relations.