Russian troops from the so-called African Corps have left their third strategically important city in northern Mali—Aguelhok—once again without a fight. Malian army soldiers also withdrew, often changing into civilian clothes to evade both rebels and their own commanders.
The current Malian regime, installed after a military coup, terminated its cooperation with French forces who had assisted for years against jihadists and separatists, instead relying on the Wagner Group, later replaced by Russia's Ministry of Defense African Corps. However, these forces have failed to support the government against rebel advances, deepening the crisis in the north.
The recent killing of Defense Minister Sadio Camara, a key pro-Russian figure, forced junta leader Assimi Goïta to take over his duties, but the government appears weakened, with the capital Bamako now blockaded by rebels.
Analysts warn Mali risks becoming a failed state, as jihadists and ethnic Tuaregs push for their own goals and could soon clash with each other. Russia's role has not helped stabilize the regime, and its troops continue to face accusations of war crimes, with locals recalling abuses similar to those seen in Bucha and Izium in Ukraine.
The developments in Mali highlight the limitations of Russia’s involvement in regional conflicts and signal a new phase of instability in West Africa.
