Russia claims its Africa Corps group prevented coup in Mali after rebels seize towns
Summary
Russia’s defence ministry said its Africa Corps troops fought to stop a coup in Mali, but local reports say the troops left after negotiating their exit. Rebel forces seized towns including Kidal, killed Mali’s defence minister, and challenged Russia’s influence in the country. Mali has faced ongoing violence with Islamist militants and separatist rebels since 2012.Key Facts
- Russia’s Africa Corps is the new name for the Wagner mercenary group operating in Mali.
- Africa Corps troops said they fought for over 24 hours while surrounded near Kidal.
- Local sources say the troops negotiated their exit before the rebels took Kidal.
- Rebel forces killed Mali’s defence minister Sadio Camara in an attack near the capital, Bamako.
- Mali has experienced violence and instability since 2012, involving Tuareg rebels and jihadists linked to al-Qaida.
- About 2,000 Russian soldiers are currently deployed in Mali under the Africa Corps.
- Analysts suggest Russia may focus on defending the government in the south rather than controlling the north.
- The whereabouts of Mali’s military ruler Assimi Goïta are unclear amid reports of internal tensions in the government.
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