[Verginius Rufus]

Mali used to be the French Sudan, part of French West Africa. Those who don't keep up with current events may not realize that the French Sudan changed its name to Mali (convenient for avoiding confusion with the other Sudan).

I wasn't aware that Russia ever had any colonies in Africa.

[lifeofgrace]

I wasn't aware that Russia ever had any colonies in Africa.

In 1889, Russia occupied Sagalio, now known as Djibouti. It didn't go well, and lasted about 2 months before the Tsar disavowed it and so ended Russia's foray into Africa.