Mali Expels Swedish Ambassador Over Hostile Statement
- Mali's government ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave within 72 hours.
- The decision was made in response to what Mali called a 'hostile' statement by a Swedish minister.
- Tensions between Mali and Sweden escalate over diplomatic issue.
BAMAKO, Mali (AP) — Sweden's ambassador to Mali, Kristina Kuhnel, has been given 72 hours to exit the country following a statement deemed "hostile" by Mali's foreign ministry. This diplomatic incident highlights the growing rift between Mali and Western nations, particularly as the country, along with Burkina Faso and Niger, shifts its alliances towards Russia. The tensions escalated after Swedish Minister Johan Forssell announced the cessation of development aid to Mali, citing the country's support for Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Forssell's remarks came in response to Mali's recent decision to sever diplomatic ties with Ukraine, which he criticized on social media. He emphasized that it is contradictory for Mali to receive substantial aid while supporting Russia's actions in Ukraine. The Swedish government had already planned to close its embassy in Bamako by the end of the year, reflecting a broader withdrawal of Western influence in the region since Mali's military junta took power in 2020. Relations between Mali and Western powers have deteriorated significantly, particularly after the junta's pivot towards Russian support, including the involvement of Wagner mercenaries in combating local insurgencies. Sweden's decision to phase out its aid strategy follows a decade of providing over $330 million in assistance to Mali, underscoring the shifting geopolitical landscape in the Sahel. In a related development, Mali's recent diplomatic break with Ukraine was prompted by accusations of Ukrainian support for Tuareg rebels, which Ukraine has denied, calling Mali's actions hasty and short-sighted.