Bamako, Mali – Web Desk: Tensions continue to escalate in Mali as Tuareg rebels have demanded the complete withdrawal of Russian forces from the West African country.
According to international media reports, the spokesperson for the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), Mohamed El-Mouloud Ramadan, said the group’s objective is to ensure Russia exits not only Azawad but all of Mali permanently.
The demand comes amid a surge in violence, with Tuareg separatist fighters reportedly launching large-scale attacks across the country over the past weekend, including areas surrounding the capital, Bamako.
Rebel forces have also claimed control of the strategic northern desert city of Kidal following intense clashes. During the fighting, Mali’s Defence Minister Sadio Camara was reportedly killed, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.
The FLA spokesperson stated that the group’s opposition is primarily directed at Mali’s ruling authorities in Bamako, rather than Russia itself. However, he accused Russian-backed forces of supporting actions that led to serious human rights violations and killings.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Defence Ministry has confirmed that paramilitary units associated with Moscow’s Africa Corps have withdrawn from Kidal. These forces had been deployed to support Mali’s military-led government in its fight against insurgent groups.
Rebel leaders have warned that their campaign will continue, with plans to target key northern cities including Gao, Timbuktu, and Menaka, raising concerns over further instability in the Sahel region.
