The Russian Ministry of Defense's "Africa Corps" has confirmed its withdrawal from the city of Kidal in northeastern Mali following attacks by anti-government forces. This was reported by the BBC, according to UNN.
Details
"After a weekend in which separatist militants and Islamist extremists launched coordinated attacks across Mali, Russian forces in the country to help defend the military government confirmed they had withdrawn their troops from the northern city of Kidal," the publication writes.
In a series of social media posts, the Russian "Africa Corps" stated that they had "left the area" along with Malian troops.
As the publication notes, the separatist group "Azawad Liberation Front" stated on Sunday that Russian forces had agreed to a final withdrawal and claimed control over Kidal, declaring it "now free."
"While the Russian 'Africa Corps' confirmed its troops had left Kidal, posts on X on Monday noted that operations would continue in other areas of the country, though no further details were provided," the publication adds.
Most of the Africa Corps fighters previously belonged to the Russian PMC "Wagner," which operated on the continent, hired by local governments to help suppress insurgencies.
Following the death of their leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in 2023, most of the group's operations came under the control of the Russian Ministry of Defense, forming the basis of the newly created Africa Corps.
The Africa Corps is overseen by Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, and its operations are managed by Major General Andrey Averyanov, a key figure in the GRU military intelligence.
"Russia's role in helping local governments maintain power has often been rewarded with access to important natural resources such as gold, diamonds, and uranium. Like 'Wagner,' the 'Africa Corps' is accused of committing numerous atrocities against the civilian population," the publication adds.
Recall
In Mali, armed groups carried out coordinated attacks in several regions of the country simultaneously, including the capital Bamako. The military reports ongoing fighting, while local residents heard explosions and intense gunfire near key facilities.
Malian Defense Minister General Sadio Camara was killed on April 25.