Russian Africorps Fails To Defend Kidal

Malian sources told Radio France Internationale that Russian troops, formerly part of the Wagner Group, abandoned the northern city of Kidal. The troops reportedly did not fight or defend the city as jihadists and rebels seized power. Mali is currently cooperating with these Russian forces despite reports of betrayal. Russian paramilitaries have withdrawn from the city of Kidal in northern Mali following weekend attacks by jihadist groups and Tuareg rebels. Malian armed forces have taken control of several localities, specifically in the Kidal region, according to reports. The situation remains described as worrying. While Russian forces are reportedly no longer on the ground, active combat continues in the area. The government reported that Russian Islamist rebels and Tuareg separatists drove Malian forces and Russian mercenaries out of their positions. The Malian government also reported that the Defence Minister was killed during the conflict. Published images show Russians meeting a man in a military uniform with a masked face. They negotiated their withdrawal from the strategic northern city. This is considered a humiliation for Russia.