The end seems in sight for the European military mission in Mali. Dozens of European countries are fighting against jihadist groups there, but the new military regime of the African country is increasingly opposed and seems to prefer to work with Russian mercenaries.
The French now have by far the largest fighting force in Mali, about 5000 men. But 53 soldiers have died in the region and now they want to gradually withdraw. The plan was that other European countries would largely take their place, but that is difficult.
This is apparent, for example, from the treatment that Danish troops received upon arrival in the country. They had received a “clear invitation” from Mali to provide troops. Last week, 90 commandos and 15 military doctors arrived in Mali. And then suddenly the message came that they were not allowed in after all.
“The generals who carried out a coup sent a message that we are not welcome. They are playing a dirty political game,” Danish Foreign Minister Kofod said yesterday. “That’s why we decided to bring our soldiers back home.”
The country’s current leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, came to power after a coup last year. The European Union and Mali’s neighbors condemn the coup and demand new elections.
Respect
It was intended that the Danes would join the so-called Takuba mission, a new European force to replace the French mission Barkhane. After the return of the Danes, the fifteen countries involved held emergency consultations today. Over the next two weeks, they will discuss what the future counter-terrorism mission in the Sahel region should look like.
The French react less diplomatically than the Danes. Foreign Minister Le Drian called the regime’s behavior is unacceptable. “We can’t go on like this, this can’t go on. The junta is illegal.”
Prime Minister Diop of Mali calls who comments “full of contempt” and demands respect. “The French attitude must change. We are looking again at several military treaties. If they violate our sovereignty, we will ask for adjustments.”
–
