The harsh and grueling conditions in the Mali desert, where temperatures regularly exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit and water is extremely scarce, do not hinder the operations of the Ukrainians at all. This elite group of Ukrainian drone operators, who have spent years searching for Russian forces from their bunkers in Ukraine, are now conducting new missions in northern Mali.
Presence in the Mali Desert
About 15 Ukrainian experts have been sent to Mali, which is under the control of a junta, to assist local forces fighting against Russian troops. This move is part of Kyiv's efforts to weaken its enemy wherever it operates and demonstrates the expansion of anti-Russian cooperation on other fronts. Ukrainian officials believe that these operations allow them to apply their experiences in drone warfare while simultaneously increasing pressure on Russia.
Turning the Battlefield into a Testing Ground
A source from Ukraine's defense intelligence reported that several Ukrainian experts have also been stationed in Sudan, and forces from Chad, Niger, and Burkina Faso have previously traveled to Mali to receive drone training from them. Meanwhile, in response to Iranian threats, Ukraine has sent its military teams to several countries in the Middle East and has trained local forces to combat Iranian drones.
Relying on its experiences in drone warfare, Ukraine seeks to establish security agreements and obtain munitions from other countries. In this regard, cooperation with local groups and training them in combat tactics is among the main policies of this country. Ukrainian operators in Mali coordinate the operations of separatist groups remotely and assist them in their missions.
While Russia continues to strive to solidify its position in Africa, Ukraine is also testing its equipment and skills in completely different conditions. According to Ukrainian officials, these missions provide an opportunity to demonstrate that their methods are effective anywhere.
