Russia's Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, has pledged continued military support for Mali as it battles jihadists.
Lavrov stated that "Russia aims to shore up allies as the Ukraine war continues", but its involvement in West Africa precedes that and has been increasing over time.
Mali has turned to Russia for help after the country's former colonial power, France, withdrew last year.
Lavrov's visit to Mali comes after the country joined Russia's Eurasian Economic Union last month.
Mali's foreign minister, Abdoulaye Diop, defended their partnership with Russia stating that they have no need to justify their alliances to the West.
A summary of the key events according to the sources: Russia's Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, has visited Mali and pledged continued military support.
The country has been battling against jihadist insurgency since 2012, and the partnership with Russia has grown over time.
While the BBC describes the trip as part of Russia's aim to shore up allies while the Ukraine war continues, the Euronews suggests that the Russian support for Mali pre-dates that.
Lavrov outlined Moscow's ambition to provide military support for several West African governments in their battle against Islamist militants.
Further, Lavrov also emphasised how he was grateful for Mali's support for Russia's initiatives during his visit.
Meanwhile, Al Jazeera reported that Russia is seeking to expand its influence on the continent amid a diplomatic tug-of-war between global powers.
Abdoulaye Diop, Mali's foreign minister, defended Mali's partnership with Russia, stating that they have no need to justify the alliance and that he expects Russian support to extend to other West African states battling armed groups.