Mali accuses Algeria of disrupting its counter-terrorism efforts

Mali’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a sharp denunciation of Algeria’s alleged interference in its internal affairs, particularly regarding counter-terrorism policy, regional media report. In an official communiqué, Mali accused Algeria of offering support to terrorist groups destabilizing the Sahel, including providing shelter and resources.

The statement criticized Algeria’s Foreign Minister, Ahmed Attaf, for publicly commenting on Mali’s counter-terrorism strategy. Mali’s ministry characterized Algeria’s actions as paternalistic and an attempt to undermine the country’s successes against armed groups. It further accused Algerian officials of being nostalgic for a “bygone era” of influence in the region.

Tensions have escalated as Mali demanded Algeria address its own internal crises, including those in Kabylia, instead of leveraging Mali for geopolitical purposes. The Sahel nation reiterated its firm opposition to Algerian involvement in its domestic affairs, framing Algeria’s actions as detrimental to regional stability.