Russia has signed a major agreement with Mali to supply petroleum products amid an escalating fuel crisis that has forced the nationwide closure of schools and universities. The deal follows a visit to Bamako by a Russian delegation led by Alexey Keulika and underscores deepening cooperation between Moscow and the Malian government.
Under the agreement, Russia will deliver between 160,000 and 200,000 metric tons of petroleum products, along with agricultural goods, to help alleviate shortages caused by a militant blockade. The measure comes as Mali struggles to maintain economic stability following attacks on fuel convoys and trade routes by Al-Qaeda-linked militants operating under Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM).
In early September, JNIM militants imposed a blockade on fuel imports, targeting tanker convoys and cutting off major supply routes into the country. The disruption has left fuel stations in the capital, Bamako, without supplies, crippled public transportation, and driven up commodity prices, placing severe pressure on both households and businesses.
On Monday, the Malian government announced the temporary closure of all schools and universities for two weeks, citing fuel shortages that prevented staff and students from commuting. Education Minister Amadou Sy Savane confirmed the suspension on state television, stating that classes are expected to resume on November 9 if supply conditions improve.
The new deal with Russia also includes an unspecified quantity of agricultural products aimed at stabilizing food prices and easing supply pressures that have worsened since the blockade began.
Since seizing power in 2021 through a military coup, Mali’s transitional government has sought closer ties with Russia. Russian military personnel have replaced departing French troops since 2022, and the newly formed “Afrika Corps” has taken over operations previously handled by the Wagner Group.
However, security conditions have continued to deteriorate over the past year as JNIM militants intensified attacks across the country. Reports suggest that the group has received external logistical assistance, exacerbating instability and prompting Russia to increase its military involvement to safeguard key economic and security interests in Mali.