Kremlin says Russian forces will stay in Mali 'to fight extremism'
The Kremlin has affirmed that Russian forces will remain in Mali to combat extremism and support the country's military-led government. This comes after a recent insurgent offensive challenged Russian and Malian forces, resulting in significant setbacks. The situation has raised concerns about Russia's influence and interests in Africa.
- ▪The Kremlin stated that Russian forces will stay in Mali to fight extremism and support the current government.
- ▪Mali's Russia-trained defense minister, Sadio Camara, was killed in a suicide bombing.
- ▪Russian forces withdrew from Kidal after an insurgent offensive, requiring air support to repel attacks.
- ▪Insurgent groups claimed they want Russian forces to leave, believing the Malian junta cannot survive without their support.
- ▪Analysts suggest Russia's image as a security provider in Africa has been damaged by recent events.
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Kremlin says Russian forces will stay in Mali 'to fight extremism'Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxA satellite image shows the area surrounding the home of late Mali's defense minister Sadio Camara, after coordinated attacks by West Africa's al Qaeda affiliate and a Tuareg-dominated separatist group, in Kati, Mali, April 26, 2026. VANTOR/Handout via REUTERS.Published Apr 30, 2026, 06:18 PMUpdated Apr 30, 2026, 06:33 PMListenMOSCOW, April 30 - The Kremlin said on Thursday that Russian forces would stay in Mali to help the country's military-led government battle insurgents following a surprise offensive by West Africa's al Qaeda affiliate and a Tuareg-dominated separatist group.Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made the statement after being asked by a reporter how…
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