The deal includes expanded trade across key sectors such as mining, agriculture, and infrastructure development, and features a landmark commitment to explore civilian nuclear energy in Mali a first for the West African nation.

Under the agreement, Russia’s state-owned nuclear agency Rosatom will conduct feasibility studies for the construction of Mali’s first nuclear power plant. The proposed facility would focus on low-emission energy solutions aimed at addressing Mali’s chronic power shortages and dependence on fossil fuels.

“This is a historic step forward in our cooperation with Russia,” Goita said in a statement following the talks. “It reflects Mali’s determination to diversify its energy sources and strategic partnerships.”

For Russia, the deal further cements its growing influence in Africa, particularly in regions where Western presence has receded. The development follows the withdrawal of French troops from Mali and ongoing international criticism of the military government’s political trajectory.

President Vladimir Putin praised the agreements, saying they would “strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote sustainable development in Mali.”

The announcement, delivered via state television, confirmed that interim leader Assimi Goita had approved the move. Goita took control of the country following successive coups in 2020 and 2021.

The proposal to disband political parties emerged from a national dialogue held in April, during which participants also suggested extending Goita’s rule with a new five-year presidential term.

In response, demonstrators gathered in Bamako on May 3 and 4, calling for a return to multi-party democracy. Protesters held signs denouncing authoritarianism and voiced support for democratic governance. Initially, the military leadership had pledged to hold elections in February 2022.

Prior to another planned demonstration on May 9, the authorities suspended all political activity nationwide, prompting organizers to cancel the event.

Concerns about political repression have intensified amid reports that three opposition figures may have been abducted. Human rights groups and party representatives have said that Abba Alhassane, secretary general of the Convergence for the Development of Mali (CODEM), was detained on May 8 by armed men identifying themselves as security forces. That same day, El Bachir Thiam, leader of the Yelema party, was reportedly taken by unidentified individuals in the town of Kati, near the capital.

Additionally, a CODEM member said the party had lost contact with Abdoul Karim Traore, a youth leader, and feared he had also been taken. The country’s security ministry has not provided a public response regarding these incidents.