Several Killed as Separatists Clash with Malian Army and Russian Allies in Northern Mali

Recent clashes in northern Mali led to the deaths of at least 10 separatists, while the Azawad separatists claimed to have killed dozens of Malian soldiers and Russian allies. The violence erupted during a military offensive, with experts noting the difficult operational conditions for security forces in the Kidal region. Following the involvement of Russian groups, the security situation remains precarious.

BAMAKO, Mali — The violence in northern Mali escalated recently as Malian security forces engaged with an armed separatist group, resulting in numerous casualties. According to reports from the Malian army, ten separatists were killed during the two-day clash. However, the Azawad separatists claimed they inflicted heavy losses, stating that dozens of Malian soldiers and members of an allied Russian force were killed.

The conflict flared up after a military operation began in the Kidal region on Thursday. The Malian army reported that on Friday, a convoy carrying logistics was ambushed, although they managed to repel the attackers. Mohamed Maouloud Ramadan, the spokesperson for the Azawad separatists, provided insight into their gains from the ambush, mentioning the seizure of military supplies and vehicles, alongside acknowledging the loss of three of their own fighters.

Videos circulating on social media, purportedly from the separatists, depicted military vehicles ablaze in desert terrain amidst gunfire. Armed individuals, dressed in hoods, were shown posing in front of the damaged vehicles, while some footage appeared to show bodies in uniforms resembling those of the Malian army. The authenticity of these videos has not been verified by the Associated Press.

Experts like Rida Lyammouri, affiliated with the Policy Center for the New South, pointed out the challenges faced by security forces in Mali, particularly in navigating the rugged landscapes of regions like Kidal. “Gathering actionable intelligence to protect their convoys is difficult, giving armed and jihadist groups a distinct advantage,” Lyammouri noted.

This flare-up comes shortly after the Russian mercenary group Wagner announced plans to withdraw from Mali, even as the Africa Corps, which operates under the Russian defense ministry, remains stationed in the country. U.S. officials estimate there are about 2,000 mercenaries active in Mali, but the precise distribution between Wagner and the Africa Corps remains unclear.

The recent clashes in northern Mali involve complex dynamics between local separatist forces and both Malian security and Russian military partnerships. The rising casualties highlight ongoing challenges for military operations in the region, underscored by claims of substantial losses on both sides. As the situation unfolds, the implications of foreign military presence and local resistance remain to be fully understood.

Original Source: www.newsday.com