Mali’s Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop has dismissed reports suggesting that Islamist militants are close to capturing the capital, calling such claims “far-fetched” and “disconnected from reality.” Speaking at the BAMEX’25 Defense Expo on Wednesday, Diop said the Malian government and security forces have successfully contained the impact of a fuel blockade declared in September by al-Qaeda-affiliated Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). The blockade, which disrupted supply chains across northern Mali, led to fuel shortages, long queues at stations, and temporary school closures in some regions. “We are very far from the scenario being described outside our country, saying that the terrorists are here or coming to take Bamako,” Diop told reporters. “The reality is that our forces remain in control, and JNIM does not have the capacity to threaten the capital.”
His remarks come amid growing international concern over Mali’s deteriorating security environment. The United States, France, Britain, and Italy have all issued advisories urging their citizens to leave the country, citing the spread of extremist violence and instability. The African Union has also appealed for a coordinated international response to prevent further escalation. Diop criticized what he called “alarmist narratives” from foreign governments and media outlets, insisting that Mali remains open, stable, and safe for visitors and investors. He added that the government is working to strengthen cooperation with international partners, including the U.S., on security and economic recovery initiatives.
Mali has faced persistent militant activity since 2012, when jihadist groups seized parts of the north before being pushed back by French-led forces. However, attacks have intensified since the withdrawal of U.N. peacekeepers and France’s Operation Barkhane, leaving the junta-led government increasingly reliant on domestic forces and Russian support to maintain control.
