Malian security forces clashed with Azawad separatists in Kidal, resulting in 10 separatists and claims of ‘dozens’ of soldiers killed. The conflict reflects ongoing territorial struggles in northern Mali, compounded by operational challenges and the recent withdrawal of Russian mercenaries. The presence of 2,000 mercenaries from the Africa Corps poses additional uncertainty as violence escalates.
In a violent exchange in northern Mali, Malian security forces engaged with Azawad separatists, leading to a significant death toll, including 10 separatists as reported by the Malian army on Friday. The separatists, however, claimed to have killed ‘dozens’ of Malian soldiers along with members of a Kremlin-controlled force. This skirmish underscores the turmoil that continues to grip the Kidal region, which has seen ongoing conflict for years.
The violent clashes ignited following a military offensive initiated by Malian forces on Thursday. The next day, a logistics convoy was ambushed by militants, but military officials stated that they managed to repel the assault. Spokespeople for the Azawad movement reported that they seized 12 trucks loaded with supplies, including diesel tankers and military vehicles, during the encounter, further intensifying the situation.
In a statement, Mohamed Maouloud Ramadan, a spokesperson for the Azawad separatists, confirmed the loss of three of their members but emphasized their gains in the ambush. The separatists also shared videos that showed burning military trucks and armed men, although verification of the footage remains unconfirmed by independent sources, like the Associated Press.
The ongoing conflict highlights the severe operational challenges that Mali’s security forces face in rough terrain like Kidal. Rida Lyammouri, a Sahel expert from Morocco’s Policy Center for the New South think tank, pointed out difficulties in gathering actionable intelligence. His analysis indicates how this significantly benefits armed and jihadist groups in the area, complicating the security landscape.
Meanwhile, this escalation follows the recent announcement from Russia’s mercenary group, Wagner, that it would withdraw from the country after aiding Malian forces for three years in combating armed groups. Reports suggest that the Africa Corps, controlled by the Russian defense ministry, will continue to operate in Mali with approximately 2,000 mercenaries still present. The exact numbers associated with Wagner versus the Africa Corps remain unclear, leaving uncertainties about the overall security strategy in Mali.
In summary, the recent clashes between Malian security forces and Azawad separatists mark a continued and troubling chapter in the conflict in northern Mali. With dozens dead and the complexities introduced by foreign entities, such as the Russian mercenaries, tracking the impact and future of these confrontations remains challenging. As experts suggest, the rugged terrain and the disappearance of Wagner may complicate Mali’s struggle for stability even further.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
