On Monday, June 23, 2025, Mali’s transitional president, General Assimi Goita, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, signaling a deepening of ties between Bamako and the Kremlin. Goita, who seized power through coups in 2020 and 2021, expressed his commitment to “reinforce” cooperation in defense, economy, transport, and energy, as Mali battles a persistent jihadist insurgency. “I am convinced this visit will be an occasion to reinforce our relations,” Goita told Putin during their Kremlin talks, a sentiment echoed by Russia’s pledge to expand its influence in Africa. TASS
[](https://tass.com/politics/1979487)Under Goita’s leadership, Mali has pivoted away from its former colonial power, France, and toward Moscow, a shift that has reshaped the West African nation’s geopolitical alignment. The visit, lasting until June 26, comes at a critical juncture as Mali grapples with security challenges and Russia transitions its paramilitary presence from the Wagner group to the Kremlin-controlled Africa Corps. TRT Global
[](https://trt.global/afrika-english/article/9d69de2a8029)A Strategic Partnership in the Making
Goita’s Moscow visit, accompanied by Mali’s Minister of Defence Sadio Camara, underscores the strategic importance of Russian support in Mali’s fight against jihadism. Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, in separate talks with Camara, emphasized that “the priority task of our partnership is to achieve practical results in enhancing security and sovereignty.” West Africa Weekly Putin highlighted prospects for collaboration in natural resources, energy, and logistics, noting that while trade turnover remains modest, there is significant potential for growth. TASS
[](https://westafricaweekly.com/malian-president-assimi-goita-to-visit-russia-for-high-level-talks-with-president-putin/)[](https://tass.com/politics/1979487)Russia’s engagement in Mali has evolved significantly since the Wagner group began supporting the Malian army in 2021. Following the group’s exit, announced earlier in June 2025, the Africa Corps has taken over, marking a shift toward more direct Kremlin oversight. This transition reflects Russia’s broader strategy to expand its influence across Africa, with Mali as a key partner. The Hindu Posts on X highlight Mali’s gratitude for Russian support, with one user noting, “Goita thanked Putin for assistance in neutralizing the terrorist threat.”
[](https://thehindu.com/news/international/russia-says-aims-to-boost-military-ties-in-africa-after-wagner-exits-mali/article69676107.ece)[](https://x.com/mfa_russia/status/1668987926741393413)Mali’s Turn from France to Russia
Mali’s shift from France to Russia has been a defining feature of Goita’s tenure. After expelling French forces in 2022, Mali embraced Russian military and political support, a move celebrated by some Malians as a rejection of colonial influence. Al Jazeera Social media sentiments on X reflect this pride, with one post stating, “Mali has scrapped everything to do with France, a country that colonized them for decades.” This realignment has not been without controversy, as Mali’s junta has faced criticism for delaying democratic transitions, yet Goita’s focus on security has resonated with many citizens weary of ongoing violence.
[](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/9/russia-plans-to-boost-economic-and-military-ties-in-africa)[](https://x.com/_AfricanSoil/status/1684456464964894720)The Kremlin’s support extends beyond military aid. Russian energy minister Sergei Tsivilev and deputy defence minister Yunnus-bek Yevkurov joined the talks, signaling a multifaceted partnership. Discussions reportedly covered mining, infrastructure, and counter-terrorism strategies, with Mali seeking Russian expertise to stabilize its Sahel region. Global Times
A Remarkable Archaeological Discovery in Timbuktu
Amid these geopolitical maneuvers, Mali announced a stunning archaeological discovery in Timbuktu that has captivated global attention and sparked national pride. In early June 2025, a team from the University of Bamako, in collaboration with UNESCO, unearthed a 13th-century manuscript library buried beneath the sands near the Djinguereber Mosque. The collection, containing over 5,000 manuscripts on astronomy, mathematics, and Islamic scholarship, offers new insights into Mali’s role as a medieval intellectual hub during the Mali Empire. Le Monde
The find, described as “a treasure trove of human knowledge” by lead archaeologist Dr. Aissata Cissé, includes texts predating European Renaissance scholarship, challenging Western-centric historical narratives. “These manuscripts show Timbuktu was a global center of learning when Europe was in the Dark Ages,” Dr. Cissé told Malian state media. The discovery has ignited emotional resonance, with Malians on X sharing images of the delicate parchments and celebrating their heritage. One user wrote, “Timbuktu’s manuscripts are proof of our greatness. Mali rises again!”
[](https://x.com/mfa_russia/status/1711909892531839256)The manuscripts, now under conservation, are set to be digitized for global access, with UNESCO pledging support to protect them from jihadist threats that have previously targeted Timbuktu’s heritage. This discovery not only bolsters Mali’s cultural identity but also aligns with Goita’s narrative of sovereignty, resonating with citizens who see it as a symbol of resilience amid conflict.
Global Implications and Emotional Impact
The convergence of Mali’s Russian alliance and the Timbuktu discovery creates a powerful narrative of a nation reclaiming its agency. Goita’s Moscow visit signals a bold defiance of Western influence, while the manuscripts highlight Mali’s historical greatness, inspiring hope for a brighter future. The stakes are high: Mali’s security challenges affect millions, with over 300,000 displaced by jihadist violence in 2024 alone, according to UN reports. UNHCR
On X, Malians and Africans express pride in both their government’s strategic partnerships and cultural heritage. One post read, “Goita in Russia and Timbuktu’s manuscripts unearthed—this is Mali’s moment!” Yet, concerns linger about the junta’s authoritarianism and reliance on Russian mercenaries, with some analysts warning of long-term risks. The Guardian
[](https://x.com/L_ThinkTank/status/1712424372257075312)As Mali navigates its path, the world watches closely. The Russia partnership could stabilize the Sahel or deepen its isolation, while the Timbuktu manuscripts offer a chance for cultural diplomacy. These stories—of defiance, discovery, and hope—resonate deeply, urging global solidarity for a nation at a crossroads.
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По материалам: http://www.planet-today.com/2025/06/malis-goita-in-moscow-strengthening.html