Addressing the diplomatic corps in Bamako, Mali’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdoulaye Diop, firmly responded to calls from a segment of the local political class advocating for dialogue with the jihadist groups currently occupying parts of the nation. Minister Diop unequivocally stated, «I must clarify that the government does not foresee any dialogue with these lawless, faithless armed terrorist groups, who bear responsibility for the tragic events our populations have endured for years.»

This declaration underscores the government’s current strategy: direct military engagement on the ground. In line with this approach, Mali has reportedly acquired new military hardware from Russia.

In the northern region, a primary objective for Malian authorities is to reclaim control of Kidal, a city currently held by armed factions. This strategic imperative likely explains the strengthened presence of Russian mercenaries and the Malian army in Aguelok, another town within the Kidal region, following their withdrawal from two other localities.

Concurrently, in the southern parts of Mali, efforts are focused on clearing all major roads that have been obstructed by jihadist groups, who are imposing new blockades. As of Saturday, hundreds of vehicles, travelers, and essential goods remained stranded across various locations in the country due to these impediments.

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Population severely impacted by enduring blockades

The humanitarian situation in Diafarabé, a town in the Mopti region in central Mali, remains critically dire. The town has been under a continuous blockade by the Jnim since May 12, 2025, nearly a full year.

An urgent plea for assistance, broadcast in a widely shared video last Saturday, has so far yielded no tangible relief, according to local residents. The scarcity of food and essential supplies has reached a critical threshold. With provisions exhausted, medicine scarce, and healthcare services insufficient, the population is worn down by the prolonged blockade. Amidst fear, severe shortages, and isolation, inhabitants describe a profound sense of despair. One resident, contacted by telephone, shared their harrowing experience:

«Nobody enters, nobody leaves. The blockade is absolute. All the provisions we had here are gone. Famine is setting in. We spoke with the military detachment leaders. They promised to send us food via an upcoming convoy, but we are still waiting. This conversation happened after a protest by the youth and women. Now, it’s truly despair! There’s nothing left! Before, during the flood season, we managed to bring in food by river, little by little, despite all the risks. I myself was shot during one of those attempts. I fractured an arm. Today, I’m much better. But here, it’s about sheer survival. Our only wish is to have something to eat. That’s all we want for now.»

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