Stories from Mali

The Malian government is pursuing an agreement with the United States to allow Washington to resume aerial and vehicular intelligence gathering within Malian airspace.

The Malian government is pursuing an agreement with the United States to allow Washington to resume aerial and vehicular intelligence gathering within Malian airspace. The strikes targeted several cities including Bamako, Kati, Gao, and Mopti. Coordinated attacks by jihadist groups and Tuareg fighters from the FLA destabilized the Malian state over the weekend. Airstrikes have occurred in Mali territory following attacks by Islamist militants and Tuareg separatists. The groups involved are the Azawad Liberation Front, a Tuareg separatist organization, and Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, a jihadist alliance linked to Al-Qaeda. Armed forces launched coordinated military attacks across various parts of Mali, including the outskirts of Bamako. Natural sources report at least 20 people were killed during two days of fighting.

Mali's government, under President Guetta, has increasingly turned towards Russia for support, moving away from Western partnerships. This shift suggests a reduced role for Western powers in addressing the country's internal issues. Malian President Assimi Goïta has not appeared publicly for over 72 hours, fueling concerns among residents. This comes as Russian forces, who replaced French troops, withdrew from the northern city of Kidal without resistance. The situation is increasing anxiety in Mali. Russian mercenary group Africa Korps is supporting Mali's rulers, broadcasting propaganda videos during recent fighting. A civilian in Sevare, central Mali, sent a video clip to NRK showing jihadists at a headquarters outside the capital, Bamako, where they killed individuals. This move comes as armed groups have imposed an economic blockade on the Malian capital, Bamako, since January.

The military in southern Algeria expresses discontent, particularly regarding French influence, believing it hinders their operations. This sentiment suggests potential friction in joint or coordinated security efforts within the region.

The complex ties of the Tuareg population to Mali, particularly in regions like Kidal and Timbuktu, are contributing to internal tensions. These historical connections are seen as a factor in the country's stability, drawing parallels to challenges faced by larger nations with strong state institutions.

The capacity of the Malian government to react to the seizure of Mopti by militants remains uncertain. Analysts suggest that the government's response will be a major turning point in the conflict in Mali and the Sahel region.

Mali continues to grapple with widespread violence, primarily from Islamist extremist groups. Since 2020, a military government has been in power, struggling to combat these persistent threats. Groups like G'Nim are identified as active participants in the ongoing conflict.

Malian security forces arrested Professor Avoksuma Jona Hachene Mou, president of the Democratic Party, at his residence alongside his wife. Following the arrest, police reportedly raided the headquarters of the African Party for Peace and Social Justice, causing property damage. Coalition spokespeople are meeting urgently to address the incident. Security forces arrested GK party president Professor Avocs Majona Hachenemou and his spouse at their family home on Saturday morning. The arrests follow a Supreme Court ruling two days ago that dissolved the organization and declared its activities illegal nationwide. The government spokesperson, Gassim Chérif, stated the arrests are due to the group's failure to comply with the law. The organization had called for a protest march prior to the crackdown.

Elements of the Macina movement launched attacks in Mopti, targeting a major military base and the residence of Defense Minister Sadio Camara. The army reported neutralizing several terrorists and destroying their equipment during clearing operations. The US Embassy has advised its citizens in the region to remain in their homes. These developments follow a pattern of long-term conflict involving Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso against insurgent groups. Mali is seeking intelligence gathering capabilities regarding armed groups, according to reports from the New York Times. This move follows discussions regarding a potential intelligence agreement with the United States. This move aims to bolster security against insurgent activities within the country.

Tuareg separatist forces have announced they have taken control of the strategic desert town of Qidal. This development occurs as militants continue to launch coordinated attacks across several Malian cities, including the capital Bamako. The seizure of Qidal represents a significant shift in territorial control within the region. The JNIM militant group has claimed control of Qidal in coordination with the Azawad Liberation Front. A FLA official stated that Russian mercenary groups have requested a withdrawal corridor. Assailants have also taken control of police stations in Moclis. Strategic sites including the Modi-Bokehita airport in Bamako have been targeted.