Russian Africa Corps Quits Kidal, Mali Defence Minister Sadio Camara Killed
The Russian Africa Corps confirmed its withdrawal from the northern Malian city of Kidal, stating on social media that they had “left the locality” alongside Malian troops. This move follows a weekend of intense, co-ordinated assaults across Mali by separatist and Islamist groups.
The separatist Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) declared Kidal “now free” on Sunday, asserting control after an agreement for the permanent withdrawal of Russian forces. Kidal served as a de facto headquarters for the separatist movement for over a decade before its capture by the Malian army and Russian mercenaries in late 2023.
Widespread Attacks Across Mali
Saturday saw explosions and sustained gunfire in multiple locations, including the capital, Bamako. Attacks were also reported in central cities like Sevare and Mopti, and northern cities Gao and Kidal.
In Kati, near Bamako, Malian Defence Minister Sadio Camara was killed at his residence in an apparent suicide truck bombing. Reports indicate the FLA focused its assault on northern cities, while the jihadist group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) launched simultaneous attacks elsewhere.
Despite the Kidal withdrawal, the Russian Africa Corps stated that operations would continue in other parts of Mali, citing the “complex” situation. The group, largely comprising former Wagner mercenaries, evacuating wounded personnel and heavy equipment from Kidal. These forces are overseen by Russian Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov and Maj-Gen Andrey Averyanov.
Russia’s involvement in Mali, like its engagements elsewhere in Africa, is often linked to securing access to critical natural resources such as gold, diamonds, and uranium. The Africa Corps has faced accusations of committing atrocities against civilians, with its members reportedly earning at least USD#3,000 per month.