Coordinated rebel attacks have resulted in the Malian army and Russian mercenaries withdrawing from the strategic city of Kidal, and the death of Mali’s Defense Minister.
Rebel Control of Kidal Confirmed
The key city of Kidal is now outside government control following a series of coordinated attacks. Local sources reported on Monday, April 27th, that the Malian army and Russian mercenaries had withdrawn from Kidal.
Residents confirmed the withdrawal, reporting seeing military columns leaving the city. The Russian African Corps, subordinate to the Russian Ministry of Defense, also confirmed the withdrawal of units stationed and fighting in Kidal, along with Malian army personnel.
Coordinated Attacks Across Mali
Rebels from the Azawad Liberation Front announced “full” control of Kidal, a city of significant importance to the conflict in the north. It had been under rebel control for years before being seized by the Malian army with Wagner Group support in November 2023.
In recent days, Mali has experienced a series of attacks in various regions, including Kati, Kidal, Gao, and Sevare, as well as areas near the capital, Bamako. The attacks were claimed by the Support Group for Islam and Muslims, linked to Al-Qaeda, operating with Tuareg allies. These are the most serious clashes in years between government forces and combined jihadist and separatist forces.
Defense Minister Killed in Attack
Mali’s Defense Minister, General Sadio Camara, was killed in an attack on his residence in Kati, on the outskirts of Bamako. His family first reported his death, which was later confirmed by authorities. Earlier reports indicated that family members also died in the attack.
Political Situation Remains Unstable
Despite these events, rebels have not taken control of all of Mali. The military junta still controls the capital and state institutions. However, the loss of Kidal and the death of the Defense Minister have worsened the country’s stability.
Authorities initially reported limited casualties, citing 16 wounded soldiers and civilians. However, Western media and local sources describe the situation as far more serious.
Implications for Russia
These events also pose a problem for Russia, which increased its engagement in Mali through the African Corps after the withdrawal of French forces and the end of Wagner Group activities. The Russian forces’ withdrawal from Kidal represents a loss of a key point in the north, undermining efforts to stabilize the region in cooperation with the junta.
International Condemnation
International organizations have reacted to the developments. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the acts of violence and called for coordinated support to address the growing threat of terrorism and extremism in the Sahel region. The European Union also condemned the attacks.
Mali has been in crisis since 2012, grappling with jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, as well as Tuareg rebels seeking autonomy or independence for Azawad in the north.