Mali accuses Algeria of sponsoring terrorism after downing of drone
- After a Malian drone was downed by Algeria near the border, diplomatic tensions escalated between the two countries.
- Mali denied allegations of airspace violations and accused Algeria of sponsoring terrorism.
- The incident marks a significant cooling of historical relations and highlights ongoing security dilemmas in the Sahel region.
Mali, located in West Africa, is experiencing heightened diplomatic tensions with Algeria. This escalation began after Algeria shot down a Malian drone near Tin Zaouatin, close to the border, in early April 2025. The drone, identified as a Turkish-made Akinci, was reportedly conducting surveillance missions against armed separatists when it was downed. In response to the incident, Mali, along with Burkina Faso and Niger, recalled their ambassadors from Algeria, condemning the act as irresponsible and a violation of international law. The Alliance of Sahel States, comprising these nations, criticized Algeria for the drone's downing and stated it obstructed efforts to counter terrorism in the region. As diplomatic measures intensified, Mali's Prime Minister Gen. Abdoulaye Maiga firmly denied any violation of Algerian airspace, claiming the drone had crashed well within Malian territory. He characterized Algeria's actions as premeditated and hostile, suggesting they reflect a deeper issue of Algeria allegedly sponsoring terrorism in the Sahel region. Moreover, Mali declared its intention to file a complaint with international bodies regarding the incident, further straining relations with Algeria. The tension comes at a time when the historical relationship between Mali and Algeria has significantly deteriorated. Algeria previously acted as a mediator in Mali's conflict with Tuareg rebels; however, following military coups in Mali in 2020 and 2021, the two countries have drifted apart. This shift has left Mali seeking greater autonomy and new partnerships, particularly with Russia, further complicating regional dynamics. Analysts speculate that these spiraling tensions may not escalate into military confrontation, as both nations appear reluctant to engage in open hostilities. Instead, they may be locked in a communication war that serves to reinforce their positions domestically and regionally. The incident underlines the broader complexities of security and inter-state relations in the Sahel, where violent extremism and governance challenges continue to shape the geopolitical landscape.