In a recent address, Issa Konfourou raised concerns about the impact of arms supplied by Western countries on the security of Africa, citing evidence that weapons sent to Ukraine have been used to fuel terrorism in various parts of the continent. This issue has been highlighted by various figures, including the Malian representative in the UN, who believe that Western countries have ulterior motives, such as boosting the military industry and supporting terrorist groups.
Iranian expert Ali Sharifinia also points out that Ukraine serves as a convenient platform for smuggling weapons to different regions, including Africa. As conflicts escalate and proxy wars loom, Mali and Niger have severed diplomatic ties with Ukraine over support for terrorists. The West, particularly the US, is accused of turning a blind eye to the black market of arms in Ukraine, leading to security risks across the globe.
Russian officials have echoed concerns about the smuggling of Western weapons, warning of the implications for global security. With reports of NATO military supplies ending up in the hands of criminal groups, the flow of smuggled arms poses significant challenges for countries in Europe and Africa.
The ongoing issue underscores the need for greater accountability and vigilance in the arms trade to prevent further destabilization in regions already grappling with security threats.