Malian Govt. Summons Algerian Ambassador After Drone Destruction Incident

Tension has continued between Mali and Algeria after the Malian government accused the Algerian regime of an “act of aggression” following the destruction of a Malian military drone during the night of March 31 to April 1, 2025.

Mali’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr Abdoulaye Diop, summoned Algeria’s Ambassador to Mali, Mr Kamel Retieb, on Monday. The meeting in Bamako aimed to express Mali’s strong protest against what it described as a hostile and unjustifiable action by Algeria.

Diop condemned the incident, calling the drone’s destruction an “extreme decision” by a neighbouring country traditionally viewed as a “brother nation.”

He stressed that the drone had remained entirely within Malian airspace during its routine surveillance mission and posed no threat to Algeria.

The Malian government expressed deep disappointment over Algeria’s actions, especially in light of Mali’s historical support for Algerian independence. Instead of solidarity, Diop said, Algeria had chosen a confrontational path that threatens stability in the already fragile Sahel region.

Diop also accused the Algerian regime of collusion with terrorist groups, stating that Algeria offers them “asylum, protection, and support.” He warned that such actions jeopardize regional efforts to combat terrorism and undermine the shared security objectives of the Confederation of Sahel States (CSS).

Calling the incident “an extremely serious act,” Minister Diop asserted that it obstructed a mission aimed at neutralizing high-ranking terrorists. He said the event confirms a troubling shift in Algeria’s posture despite Mali’s long-standing efforts to foster mutual trust and cooperation.

In closing, the Foreign Minister reaffirmed the commitment of Mali’s Transitional Authorities to intensify the fight against terrorism and insecurity, vowing that such provocations would not deter the nation’s resolve.

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