Kidal, Mali — The Russian Africa Corps has withdrawn from the strategic northern city of Kidal in Mali, following a series of attacks by Tuareg rebels and their jihadist allies.
The retreat comes after the rebels and their jihadist allies, including the al — Qaeda-linked Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), joined forces to challenge the ruling junta and its Russian backers.
The withdrawal follows the weekend attacks, which resulted in the death of Mali’s Defense Minister, Saido Camara, and the capture of key military positions by the rebels.
The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the situation, calling for calm amidst the escalating violence. Russia’s defense ministry had previously claimed that they had repelled the offensive, but verified footage shows the rebels in control of Kidal.
The rebels are also reported to be threatening to impose a blockade on the capital, Bamako. Mali’s military leader, Assimi Goita, has been absent from public view since the weekend’s attacks, fueling speculation about the current state of the junta’s control over the country.
The situation in Mali is complex, with various stakeholders vying for power and influence, including external actors such as Russia.
The withdrawal of the Russian paramilitaries marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict and could have far — reaching consequences for Mali and the Sahel region as a whole.
The international community watches closely, with concerns about the stability of Mali and the potential for regional spillover.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Rédaction Africanews
