Former Malian Prime Minister Moussa Mara has been sentenced to two years in prison and fined for a social media post in which he criticized military leaders. Human rights organizations consider the verdict part of a crackdown on dissent.
The Russian PMC "Wagner" failed in Mali, not taking control of resources and intensifying violence. Relations with the junta are deteriorating, and the Kremlin has not gained access to gold mines.
The presidents of the Russian Federation and Mali signed an agreement on cooperation in nuclear energy. The countries plan to expand bilateral trade and develop joint projects in energy, logistics, and mineral exploration.