US calls for orderly UN withdrawal from Mali

The US State Department has called for an “orderly and responsible” drawdown of the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali, known as Minusma, following Bamako’s call for its departure “without delay”.

“We are concerned about the effects this decision will have on the security and humanitarian crises impacting the Malian people. We will continue to work with our partners in West Africa to help them tackle the urgent security and governance challenges they face,” the US said.

“We welcome further consultations with regional leaders on additional steps to promote stability and prevent conflict”.

The US State Department added that the Malian government “must adhere to all its commitments”, notably transferring power to an elected civilian administration by March 2024.

Mali accuses Minusma, whose current mandate expires next week, of “failing” to respond to security challenges.