Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have withdrawn their ambassadors from Algeria, accusing it of shooting down a Malian drone. Algeria confirmed it shot down a drone in its airspace due to repeated violations. Mali condemned Algeria’s actions strongly and reported the drone wreckage was found near the border. Consequently, Algeria closed its airspace to Mali-bound flights.
Recently, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso announced the withdrawal of their ambassadors from Algeria, following allegations against Algerian forces for shooting down a Malian drone. This collective action stems from a dispute regarding a drone allegedly downed by Algeria in March. On April 1, Algeria claimed responsibility, asserting that it had intercepted an armed reconnaissance drone within its airspace, although further specifics were not provided.
In response, Mali’s foreign ministry expressed confidence that the drone was shot down by Algeria in a deliberate act of hostility. Their findings indicated that the wreckage was located approximately 9.5 kilometers south of the border, suggesting the use of a missile to bring down the drone. The Malian authorities characterized this incident as an unprecedented act of aggression and strongly condemned Algeria’s actions.
In reaction to these events, Algeria has taken additional measures by closing its airspace to flights entering or departing from Mali, citing repeated violations of its airspace by Malian aircraft as the reason for this decision. This closure began immediately after their announcement from the defense ministry, highlighting the tensions escalating between the neighboring states.
The withdrawal of ambassadors by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso signifies a significant diplomatic rift with Algeria, stemming from accusations of military aggression related to a downed drone. Algeria’s closure of its airspace to Malian flights further indicates a deterioration of relations, underscoring the heightened tensions in the region. The situation illustrates the fragility of international diplomacy in West Africa, particularly among military-led governments.
Original Source: dailytrust.com
