Mali/ MINUSMA: Germany will withdraw its troops from Mali by May 2024

The German government confirmed on Wednesday the withdrawal of its troops engaged in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) by May 2024.

 This was stated in a press release issued after a cabinet meeting of the Olaf Scholz government. German soldiers from the Bundeswehr will gradually withdraw from the country in the next twelve months, according to the press release.

Berlin had announced in November 2022 the withdrawal of its armed forces involved in the UN mission in which Germany has been participating since 2013. This withdrawal is expected to be completed by May 2024.

«Whether we like it or not, what is happening in the Sahel affects us», said German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock in a statement reported by the media.

Berlin intends to remain in the Sahel region and redirect its engagement towards security in Niger, Mauritania, and the Gulf of Guinea states, according to Baerbock.

In December 2022, the German Defense Minister, Christine Anelle Lambrech, had stated that her country had decided to support the transition process in Mali until May 2024.

The withdrawal of the Bundeswehr from Mali concerns approximately 1,200 soldiers involved in the UN mission who mainly carry out training operations.

Sitou