Russia’s paramilitary force known as the “Africa Corps,” which operates under the Russian Ministry of Defense, has confirmed the withdrawal of its troops from the northern Malian city of Kidal following intense fighting with rebel groups.
According to reports, the withdrawal came after coordinated attacks launched over the weekend by the Tuareg-majority rebel alliance known as the FLA (Front for the Liberation of Azawad). The attacks targeted multiple locations across the country, including Kidal, a strategically significant city in northern Mali.
In an official statement shared on Telegram, the Africa Corps said the decision to withdraw was made in coordination with Mali’s leadership. The statement noted that units deployed in Kidal, alongside Malian armed forces, had been actively engaged in combat before pulling out of the المنطقة.
The withdrawal highlights the growing instability in Mali, where armed groups continue to challenge the authority of the military-led government. Kidal has long been a flashpoint in the conflict between government forces and Tuareg separatist movements.
The situation further escalated with the reported assassination of Mali’s Defense Minister, Sadio Camara, who was killed in a car bomb attack at his residence. The attack also claimed the lives of his second wife and two grandchildren. The incident reportedly took place near Bamako, in the military stronghold of Kati, and was confirmed by family members and a government official.
The killing of such a high-ranking official underscores the شدت of the ongoing conflict and raises serious concerns about the security situation in the country. Clashes between government forces and rebel groups continue, with no immediate signs of de-escalation.
Russia’s involvement in Mali, particularly through paramilitary forces like the Africa Corps, has been part of broader efforts to support the Malian military government in combating insurgency. However, the recent developments suggest that the security landscape remains highly volatile.
