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Russia Strengthens Military Support to Mali with Vehicle Deliveries

Russia has delivered over 100 military vehicles to Mali, possibly sourced from Syria post-Assad regime collapse. This shipment includes tanks and armored vehicles, suggesting an increase in support for pro-Russian forces in the region. Wagner Group, now active in Mali, aims to counter local militant threats amid rising tensions following the withdrawal of French forces.

On February 5, 2025, reports emerged of Russia delivering over 100 military vehicles to Mali, which included various tanks and trucks. This military equipment is believed to have originated from Syria, following a significant withdrawal of Russian forces after the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Notably, the vehicles arrived in Bamako on January 17, and video footage from Cap Mali+ showcased the extensive convoy of military hardware.

The convoy primarily consisted of armored trucks, T-72B3M tanks, BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles, and BTR-82A armored personnel carriers. Additionally, it included D-30 artillery, anti-aircraft cannons, and several boats. The presence of Cyrillic script and Russian military markings indicated that these vehicles were directly sourced from Russia, as confirmed by defense analysis from Frontelligence and insights from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence.

Following the French military withdrawal from Mali in 2022, Wagner PMC has become actively involved in the region. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence noted that Wagner’s presence escalated alongside support for the Malian government against various insurgent groups. This military hardware is expected to be distributed among Wagner units and governmental forces to bolster their capabilities against paramilitary threats and terrorist factions.

Wagner’s operations in Mali began after a military coup in late 2021, stepping in to replace French troops and assist in combating longstanding militant threats. However, they have faced challenges, including casualties and ambushes from groups like JNIM, raising concerns about their effectiveness. Human Rights Watch has alleged that Wagner, in collaboration with Malian forces, has been responsible for extensive human rights violations in the area.

In recent years, Mali has become a battleground for various armed groups, leading to increased military involvement by international powers, including Russia. The withdrawal of French forces has created a vacuum that Wagner PMC seeks to fill, reflecting a broader trend of security shifts in the Sahel region. The geopolitical landscape shifted significantly after the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, resulting in surplus military equipment being rerouted to support Russia’s interests in West Africa. The conflict in Syria serves as an operational backdrop for understanding how military resources are being redistributed globally. With ongoing strife in Mali, Russia’s provision of military hardware aims to assert its influence while countering Western-backed initiatives. This reflects a strategic pivot that could impact regional stability and geopolitical dynamics involving various state and non-state actors, including local insurgent groups and foreign military forces.

The delivery of military vehicles from Russia to Mali illustrates a strategic maneuver to enhance the capabilities of pro-Russian forces amid ongoing conflicts. Wagner’s involvement in the region, coupled with extensive military support, underscores a significant shift in the balance of power. With rising tensions between local insurgent groups and government forces, international observers are closely monitoring the implications of Russian military aid on human rights and regional stability. Understanding the dynamics at play in Mali requires considering the broader geopolitical shifts, particularly those tied to Russia’s military engagements in foreign conflicts. The potential for escalating violence and its impact on civilian populations remains a critical concern as Russia solidifies its position in African military affairs.

Original Source: indepthnews.net

Elias Gonzalez

Elias Gonzalez is a seasoned journalist who has built a reputation over the past 13 years for his deep-dive investigations into corruption and governance. Armed with a Law degree, Elias produces impactful content that often leads to social change. His work has been featured in countless respected publications where his tenacity and ethical reporting have earned him numerous honors in the industry.

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