Russia has invaded Ukraine and they have been at war for many years. Russia is allied with Mali, and they have mercenaries and the Wagner Group in Mali to help support their military against rebels. It was reported that Ukraine was supplying drones to Tuareg rebels in Mali and gaining support from Kyiv. It is also said that they were providing information to them, and this would be to weaken Mali and Russian soldiers because Russia is allied with Mali. Ultimately, Ukraine denied these allegations and the support of the terrorist linked groups trying to overtake the Malian government.
I think that because of the war between Russia and Ukraine, the alleged support from Ukraine to Malian rebels could definitely be possible. I am not sure if there is any proof of them actually sending drones or stating their support, but it would make sense. They want to weaken Russia, and they have mercenaries in Mali who they are allied with. It would also make sense if rumors were spread because of the relationship between Russia and Ukraine. They had to deny them because then it would show them in support of terrorists trying to overtake their government, but I think they would do it if it benefited them. This event is going to increase tensions and involve other countries.
Russia could respond to this event by sending more mercenaries to Mali to protect it and support them. It would also increase the tensions between Russia and Ukraine because of all the attacks. Ukraine responded by denying the allegations, even though they could definitely be true. The Mali government will have to add more protection and security because there are many attacks going on there. Ukraine could be in support of these, but that is unclear. The rebels seem to continue to attack Mali and attempt to overtake their government.
The Russia and Ukraine war has been going on for a good amount of time, starting when Russia invaded Ukraine. They believe that they should have Ukraines land, and the smaller country is trying to protect themselves. They have the support of other countries, but this war has been ongoing. There is also war in Mali, between the rebels and the government. Mali terrorists are fighting for independence in northern Mali from the government. Both of these wars have been extremely challenging, while Russia wants more power and groups in Mali want independence.