Why Ukraine may be involved in Mali's conflict

Ukraine is fighting Russia — and the conflict may extend into Africa's Sahel region . According to an investigation published by US media outlet CNN this month, around 15 Ukrainian drone specialists are reportedly supporting Tuareg rebels in northern Mali. Their common enemy: the military government in Bamako and its Russian allies. But how reliable is the information? And what price could Kyiv pay for engaging in Africa? Marta Oliynyk-D'omochko, coordinator of the African Studies Program at the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, sees a strategic motive. "Ukraine's main interest is to weaken Russia's influence around the world," she told DW.