Kathmandu— Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated on Monday that Moscow is concerned by reports indicating the involvement of Ukrainian troops with illegal armed groups operating against countries in Africa’s Sahel region. Following talks with Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Lavrov characterized this involvement as state-sponsored activity rather than isolated mercenary work, and also accused France of fueling terrorism in the area through support for these groups. The accusations come amid growing security challenges in the Sahel and increasing cooperation between Sahel nations and Russia.

Allegations Against Ukraine

Lavrov argued that the presence of serving Ukrainian military personnel—as opposed to individual mercenaries—suggests a coordinated effort at the state level. He did not provide specific evidence supporting these claims, but framed it as an alarming development for regional stability. The Russian minister’s statements follow a pattern of Moscow highlighting what it views as Western involvement in destabilizing regions around the world.

France Accused of Complicity

Lavrov also leveled accusations against France, alleging that Paris directly supports and finances illegal armed groups in the Sahel region. He claimed this support is intended to create problems for countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which have sought to distance themselves from their former colonial power. According to Lavrov, France aims to destabilize these nations as they pursue independent paths.

Sahel Region Faces Escalating Crisis

The Sahel region has been grappling with a jihadist insurgency since 2012, compounded by displacement and climate change, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. In 2023, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) after severing defense ties with France and accusing Paris of failing to address the insurgency. These nations have subsequently deepened their cooperation with Russia, while relations with France continue to deteriorate.

Ghanaian Support for Regional Security

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s foreign minister, described the Sahel as “the global epicenter for terrorism, violent extremism.” He announced that Ghana and Russia had agreed to collaborate in supporting Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali in tackling their security challenges. Ablakwa also expressed gratitude for Moscow's support of a UN resolution recognizing transatlantic enslavement as a crime against humanity, stating, “We see in Russia a reliable partner.”

Bilateral Agreements Between Russia and Ghana

Russia and Ghana are preparing to sign an agreement allowing visa-free travel for diplomatic and service passport holders, intended to facilitate cooperation across various sectors including foreign policy, trade, investment, humanitarian aid, and education. The two countries also agreed on a memorandum of understanding to foster collaboration between their media organizations, initially linking Russia’s RT and Sputnik Africa with Ghana’s GBC, with potential expansion to private outlets.

The agreements between Russia and Ghana signal a strengthening relationship as both nations seek to address shared concerns regarding regional security and international cooperation. Further details on the alleged Ukrainian involvement in the Sahel are expected to emerge as investigations continue.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.