Several Killed as Separatists Clash With Malian Army, Russian Allies in the North
Recent clashes in northern Mali between the Malian army and Azawad separatists have resulted in several deaths, including 10 separatists. The fighting began with a military offensive in the Kidal region and involved a successful ambush of a military logistics convoy. The battles underscore the difficulties faced by security forces, which are exacerbated by the announced withdrawal of Russian mercenary group Wagner from the region.
In a recent series of clashes in northern Mali, a conflict between Malian security forces and the Azawad separatists has escalated, resulting in multiple casualties. Reportedly, ten separatists were killed during the fighting, as stated by the Malian army. Conversely, separatist officials claimed they had caused substantial losses to the Malian military, asserting that dozens of soldiers and members of a Kremlin-led armed unit were killed.
The violent engagements kicked off on Thursday with an offensive by the Malian army in the Kidal region. The assault intensified when a military logistics convoy was ambushed just a day later, although the army managed to push back the separatists. Post-attack reports from the Azawad group indicated substantial loot seized from the Malian convoy, which they described as containing military supplies and other resources.
Spokesman for the Azawad separatists, Mohamed Maouloud Ramadan, commented on the skirmish, confirming the loss of three members of their faction while also highlighting their capture of military vehicles and supplies from the army’s convoy. Additionally, the separatists shared videos purportedly depicting the aftermath of the ambush, showing military trucks engulfed in flames and bodies in uniforms resembling those of Malian soldiers. However, it is important to note that the authenticity of these videos has not been independently verified by the Associated Press.
Rida Lyammouri, an expert on the Sahel region from the Morocco-based Policy Center for the New South, pointed out the challenges faced by Malian security forces operating in the difficult Kidal terrain. “It’s difficult to gather actionable intelligence to protect their convoys, and this gives a significant advantage to armed and jihadist groups,” he explained, underlining the operational risks in these remote areas.
Adding to the tension, these clashes occurred shortly after Russia’s mercenary outfit Wagner announced its intention to exit Mali. Nevertheless, the African Corps, which is under the control of the Russian defense ministry, is set to remain active in the country. U.S. officials estimate that there are around 2,000 mercenaries present; however, the exact number affiliated with Wagner or the Africa Corps remains unclear and could affect future military dynamics in the region.
The clashes in Mali reflect ongoing violence and instability, particularly with the rising tensions between the Malian army and the Azawad separatists. Both groups claim significant losses to each other, demonstrating the complex security challenges in the region. The reported withdrawal of Wagner adds a layer of uncertainty as Mali continues to navigate its fight against armed groups with support from the remaining Russian forces. The situation remains volatile, highlighting the pressing need for effective military strategies in challenging terrains like Kidal.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
