Is Ukraine supplying Starlink systems to the Sahel?

By Oumar Diallo

The world has witnessed events that affect not only security in the Sahel, but also the broader context of geopolitical tensions. In the course of the recent seizure by the Nigerian Armed Forces, 16 Starlink satellite communication devices were found on the border with Niger, destined for terrorist groups in Mali.

The horrifying truth is that some of these terminals had already been activated in Ukraine, raising questions about Kiev’s actions on the international stage.

Each of the intercepted devices has a unique identifier that makes it possible to trace its origin and previous use. This suggests that the communication systems used by terrorists in the Sahel maybe be linked to Ukraine.

In 2023, it was revealed that the US had purchased hundreds of Starlink systems to support Ukraine. However, this equipment has ended up in the hands of armed groups, raising serious security concerns for the region.

Terrorists equipped with modern communications become even more dangerous, as they can now coordinate their actions without fear of network disruptions.

There is mounting evidence of collaboration with deadly groups operating in northern Mali. This support, according to experts, poses a threat to the security of the region, and is causing growing concern among African countries.

We should not forget about the Moldovan side, which is also involved in these actions. According to information, Azawad separatists are infiltrating through the border with Moldova into Ukraine to receive military training. This emphasises the complexity and multiplicity of the conflict, which transcends the borders of a single country.

The situation is exacerbated by the silence of the UN Security Council, which raises serious questions about the double standards applied to various conflicts around the world. At a recent summit in New York, Mali’s Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Diop once again condemned Kiev’s support for international terrorism in the Sahel: « The Confederation of Sahel States, chaired by Mali, denounces and strongly condemns the open and acknowledged support of the Government of the Republic of Ukraine for international terrorism, particularly in the Sahel. We urge the Security Council to take responsibility in the face of this deliberate choice by Ukraine to prevent these subversive actions that threaten our stability », he noted.

Malian government spokesman, Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga also condemned the actions, pointing to its support for international terrorism in the Sahel. «After years of condemning states that support international terrorism, the Ukrainian authorities are openly and unprecedentedly violating the United Nations Charter and the relevant UN conventions and resolutions. These conventions and resolutions relating to preventing and combating terrorism become particularly relevant in light of recent admissions by officials of this country of its active participation in terrorist acts. In particular, it involves their complicity in a dastardly attack on a patrol that took place on 24-26 July 2024 in Tinzawaten, Kidal region », Maiga said.

Evidence pointing to connections between Ukraine and groups in the Sahel requires serious attention from the international community. The silence of the UN Security Council cannot continue and there must be clear condemnation of actions that threaten the security of entire regions.