Several Killed as Separatists Clash with Malian Army, Russian Allies in Conflict-Hit North
In Mali, armed clashes between security forces and separatists resulted in significant casualties, with 10 separatists dead and claims from the Azawad group of numerous Malian military deaths. The conflict unfolded in Kidal and highlights ongoing instability, compounded by the departure of Russian mercenaries. Security expert Rida Lyammouri notes the operational difficulties faced by Mali’s military in the region.
In a troubling escalation of violence in Mali, clashes between the Malian army and armed separatists resulted in the deaths of 10 separatists during a two-day conflict that began Thursday. Reports from the Malian army indicate that the confrontations occurred mainly in the Kidal region, where a military offensive triggered the outbreak of hostilities. The separatist group, known as the Azawad rebels, claims to have inflicted heavier casualties, stating that dozens of Malian soldiers, along with members of a Russian-controlled militia, were killed.
The skirmishes escalated quickly when a Malian military logistics convoy was ambushed Friday. Although the attack was reportedly repelled, it demonstrates the ongoing challenges faced by Mali’s security forces. The Azawad group’s spokesperson, Mohamed Maouloud Ramadan, detailed the recovery of military equipment, including trucks loaded with provisions and fuel, and admitted to losses as well.
Footage shared by the separatists showcased the aftermath of the ambush, depicting military trucks ablaze in the desert and armed fighters posing triumphantly. However, the authenticity of these videos remains unverified by independent sources, such as the Associated Press.
Rida Lyammouri, a Sahel expert at the Morocco-based Policy Center for the New South, emphasized the uphill battle facing security forces, particularly in the Kidal region, noting difficulties in gathering actionable intelligence. This situation is providing significant advantages to both armed and jihadist groups in the area.
This violent episode occurs in the wake of Russia’s Wagner Group announcing their withdrawal from Mali, after providing assistance to the local military in combating armed factions for over three years. Despite their exit, the African Corps, which falls under the Russian defense ministry, is expected to remain. As tensions mount in the region, there are approximately 2,000 mercenary forces present in Mali, though the exact breakdown between Wagner and the African Corps remains unclear.
The recent clashes between Malian security forces and separatist groups reflect ongoing instability in the north of Mali, particularly in the Kidal region. The Azawad separatists continue their fight for independence, despite previous peace agreements. With the departure of Russian allies and the persistence of armed groups, Mali faces a complex security landscape that poses significant challenges to its military operations and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
