Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso Withdraw Ambassadors from Algeria Amid Tensions

Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have withdrawn ambassadors from Algeria after allegations that Algerian forces shot down a Malian drone. This statement follows Mali’s assertion of aggressive actions by Algeria and has led to Algeria’s closure of its airspace to Malian aircraft. The incident signifies heightened tensions between the nations involved.

Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have jointly announced the withdrawal of their ambassadors from Algeria, following claims that Algerian forces shot down a Malian drone. This declaration was made in response to an accusation from Mali regarding the downing of its drone in late March over Algerian territory. In a statement issued by the Malian foreign ministry, it was asserted that this incident was a result of a “hostile premeditated action by the Algerian regime.”

The Malian authorities reported that the wreckage of the drone was discovered approximately 9.5 kilometers south of the Algerian border and indicated it was downed using a ground-to-air or air-to-air missile. They described the action as an “unprecedented act of aggression” and strongly condemned the alleged conduct of Algeria. In response, Algeria confirmed on April 1 that it shot down an armed reconnaissance drone but did not provide additional specifics.

In the aftermath of these developments, Algeria has taken further measures by closing its airspace to all aircraft traveling to or from Mali. The Algerian defense ministry stated that the closure was due to “repeated violations” of its airspace by the Malian state, effective immediately. The situation has escalated tensions between the bordering nations and highlights ongoing regional conflicts.

In summary, the withdrawal of ambassadors by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from Algeria marks a significant diplomatic tension linked to the shooting down of a Malian drone. The allegations of aggression and subsequent closure of Algerian airspace to Malian flights underscore the fragile relationship between these countries and potential regional instability.

Original Source: dailytrust.com