A Malian soldier, speaking under the authority of President Assimi Goïta, has delivered a scathing indictment of France’s military presence in Mali, alleging betrayal and manipulation during their joint operations against insurgents. The soldier, who claims to have served on the frontlines alongside French forces, paints a picture of stark inequality and strategic sabotage.
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“Those who say France did nothing, or that they should stay, they don’t know,” the soldier stated, detailing his experiences patrolling and sharing meals with French troops. “We were used as cannon fodder. They put us in the front line. If there was no danger, we’d report ‘R.A.S.’ But when the bullets flew, it was ‘war, huh?’ Many Malian soldiers fell, and we were powerless”.
He further alleges that French forces actively hindered Malian efforts to regain control of key territories, particularly Kidal. “We were five kilometers from Kidal, ready to retake it. A lieutenant colonel ordered us to stop. When we tried to advance, they threatened to shoot us. I cried like a baby. Bamako’s response? ‘Stay behind France”.
The soldier’s most explosive accusation involves the alleged support of rebels by the French military. “The next day, we saw them refueling the rebels, even giving them eight pickup trucks. They said it was for peace. I was later delivered to those same rebels after our position was betrayed.” He claims intercepted radio transmissions confirmed the betrayal, with French forces celebrating their “mission accomplished.
“Despite this harrowing experience, the soldier returned to the Malian army, receiving further training and degrees. “Mali has always been my priority. I know the north like the back of my hand. I know who the French are, and they know who I am.”
Addressing criticism of the Malian army’s tactics, he explained the complexities of urban warfare. “We don’t drop bombs on villages because they use women and children as shields. Those who don’t know war, how can they understand?”
He concluded with a resolute promise: “Mali will be free. We are liberators, not politicians. We will liberate Mali. We have a rich and huge land. We can make it perfect.”
