Explosions rang out near a military base in Mali, coordinated attacks are being recorded across the country and in the capital

In Mali, armed groups carried out coordinated attacks immediately in several regions of the country, including the capital Bamako. The military reports ongoing battles, while local residents heard explosions and intense gunfire near key facilities. This is reported by BBC, as transmitted by UNN.

Details

"Armed groups have launched coordinated attacks across the territory of Mali, including in the capital Bamako," the publication writes.

The military notes that "battles are ongoing," adding that the defense and security forces are currently repelling the attacks.

Witnesses reported explosions and prolonged gunfire early Saturday morning near the Kati military base - a large facility outside the Malian capital. Troops were deployed to block roads in the area. There are also reports of attacks in Gao in the east and Sevare in central Mali.

One resident returning to Bamako from Ethiopia said all flights to the city were canceled early Saturday. It is not yet clear whether the reported attacks affected airport operations. It is also unknown who is behind these attacks.

The US Embassy in Mali advised citizens to remain in shelters and avoid travel, citing explosions and gunfire near Modibo Keïta International Airport in Bamako and near Kati.

The publication reminds that Mali is currently governed by a military junta led by General Assimi Goïta, who first seized power in a 2020 coup, promising to restore security and push back armed groups. The junta had public support when it came to power, promising to resolve the long-standing security crisis caused by a separatist uprising in the north of the country by ethnic Tuaregs, which was later hijacked by Islamist militants.

Recall

In Mali, where the so-called "African Corps," formed on the basis of Russian forces, is operating, according to specialized media, is actively rearming with Chinese military equipment. Despite the presence of Russian troops, the country is betting on quick and relatively cheap armament upgrades through China to counter insurgents and ISIS fighters.