A dual message delivered on independence day

Speaking in a radio and television broadcast on Monday night, Goïta restated his commitment to defending Mali’s territorial integrity and national unity while presenting himself as open to negotiation. “While remaining open to dialogue and reconciliation between Malian brothers, our firm will to defend the integrity of our territory and national unity remains intact,” the Malian head of state declared. He also pledged to intensify operations against armed jihadist groups, at a time when Malian forces are facing a surge in attacks. “In this context, the fight against insecurity and armed terrorist groups will be strengthened further,” he added.

66ÈME ANNIVERSAIRE : VŒUX DE BONNE FÊTE D’INDÉPENDANCE pic.twitter.com/4UHkt0JkjM

— Presidence Mali (@PresidenceMali) September 21, 2026

Dioura attack killed more than 100 soldiers

The address followed a series of attacks on Malian forces in recent weeks. The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), which is affiliated with Al-Qaeda, has claimed or been blamed for several operations against military positions.

On September 10, an assault on the Dioura camp in central Mali killed more than 100 Malian soldiers, according to available information. Several dozen other troops were also taken prisoner. The particularly deadly attack marked a fresh setback for the Malian army, which has been engaged for years in the fight against jihadist groups.

L’Adresse à la Nation du Président de la Transition, Son Excellence le Général d’Armée Assimi GOÏTA, Chef de l’État, à l’occasion du 66e anniversaire de l’indépendance du Mali.https://t.co/kkhAEefRUM

— Presidence Mali (@PresidenceMali) September 21, 2026

Tribute to fallen troops and deeper Russian cooperation

In his speech, Goïta paid tribute to soldiers killed in combat and praised their sacrifice in the name of defending the homeland. He also reaffirmed his intention to strengthen the capabilities of the Malian army. In that regard, he mentioned the continuation of cooperation with Russia, which has become Bamako’s main strategic partner since the gradual withdrawal of French forces and several Western partners.

Mali marks the 66th anniversary of its independence on Tuesday, September 22. The ceremonies are taking place in a particularly tense security environment, as jihadist groups continue to carry out attacks on security forces and seek to expand their influence in several regions of the country.