A senior Russian security official has cautioned that Ukraine’s reported plan to sell surplus military weapons to African nations could result in those arms reaching militant groups operating across the continent.
Alexander Ivanov, Director of the Moscow-based Union of International Security Officers, issued the warning in response to recent comments by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky stated that Kyiv had reached agreements with several African countries to supply surplus weapons initially produced for Ukraine’s armed forces, noting that the proceeds would be used to fund defense systems the country still needs. He did not specify which countries were involved or provide a timeline for the transactions.
Speaking to Russia’s TASS news agency, Ivanov claimed that likely end-users of such weapons could include militant groups in Mali and other members of the Sahel alliance, as well as armed factions in Libya and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He alleged that some of these groups are already receiving Ukrainian weapons through unofficial channels, warning that formal exports could “end up in the hands of terrorists.”
Ivanov further reiterated earlier claims that Ukraine has sent drones and military trainers to several African states, including Libya, Somalia, the DRC, the Central African Republic, and Chad. He alleged that these trainers have been coordinating attacks against government and allied forces, providing drones—such as Mavic 3 quadcopters equipped with Ukrainian-made launch systems—and technical instruction.
These allegations mirror previous Russian accusations that Ukraine supported Azawad rebels in Mali. In July 2024, Malian forces and Wagner Group paramilitaries reportedly sustained heavy losses in an attack near Tinzaouaten—an operation Kyiv has acknowledged supporting.
Ivanov also suggested that Ghana could become a key partner in Ukraine’s new arms outreach, citing recent talks between President Zelensky and Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama. The discussions reportedly covered cooperation in drone technology and military expertise.
While many African countries have maintained neutrality or lean toward Moscow due to historical and economic ties, Ghana has been among the few that have consistently condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine since 2022, affirming its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Source:Africa Publicity
