The diplomatic tension between Sweden and Mali escalates as ambassador is ordered to leave within 72 hours
Sweden’s ambassador to Bamako has been summoned and instructed to depart Mali within 72 hours due to what Mali’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs deems as a “hostile” statement by a Swedish minister. This decision comes shortly after Sweden’s minister for international development cooperation and trade, Johan Forssell, announced the phasing out of aid to Mali following the country’s alleged support for Russia in its conflict with Ukraine.
The rift highlights the shifting geopolitics in the Sahel region, with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger leaning towards closer ties with Russia. This alignment has also prompted Sweden to close its embassy in Bamako by the end of 2024.
With Mali grappling with internal unrest and armed groups, the military-led government is striving to regain control. Despite Sweden’s prior military presence in the region under a UN peacekeeping mission, the country has decided to withdraw its soldiers from Mali.
The recent defense cooperation pact signed by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger further signals the changing alliances in the region, although the effectiveness in curbing violence remains uncertain.