Moscow has blasted the terrorist activity in Mali as it may cause aggravation in the entire Sahara-Sahel region, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has said.
The diplomat noted that Russia "is shocked by the new crimes committed by Islamist extremists against the civilian population of Mali."
"Such criminal attacks may entail aggravation of the situation not only in Mali, but also in the entire Sahara-Sahel region, which is undergoing a difficult period in its historical development," Zakharova pointed out. "We strongly condemn the bloody activity of terrorists."
The Foreign Ministry pointed out that, on September 7, terrorist attacks in Mali killed 49 civilians and 15 military personnel. One of the attacks targeted a passenger ship traveling on the Niger River, and the prompt response of the Malian military prevented more casualties, the ministry added.
The Russian Foreign Ministry stressed that "the terrorist attacks were an attempt by destructive forces to strike another blow to the efforts of Mali's transitional government to establish a peaceful life and ensure national security."
"We express our sincere condolences to the leadership and people of Mali. Reaffirming our consistent support for Bamako's course of strengthening security and stability in the friendly Republic of Mali, we will continue to provide it with the necessary assistance and help," the ministry concluded.
More than a decade of violent clashes in the country have had tangible consequences, including mass displacement and a catastrophic humanitarian situation. The UN estimates that some 8.8 million people in Mali are in need of humanitarian assistance.