Mali's junta can't seem to rely on ally Russia as jihadist offensive threatens regime
Mali's junta is facing challenges as Tuareg rebels reclaim a stronghold previously held by Russian mercenaries. The Azawad Liberation Front has formed an agreement with Russia's post-Wagner paramilitary force for their withdrawal from Kidal. Meanwhile, Malian soldiers remain trapped in the region amidst ongoing jihadist attacks.
- ▪Tuareg rebels have reclaimed the fort of Kidal in northern Mali.
- ▪The Azawad Liberation Front announced an agreement for the withdrawal of Russian paramilitary forces.
- ▪Malian soldiers are still held captive in Kidal as jihadist attacks continue.
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Tuareg rebels from the Front de libération de l'Azawad coalition in Kidal, Mali, April 26, 2026. ABDOLLAH AG MOHAMED/AFP On Sunday, April 26, the pro-independence flag was planted atop the fort of Kidal, a rebel stronghold in Mali's far north. The rebels of the Azawad Liberation Front (ALF) reclaimed the fort two and a half years after Russian Wagner mercenaries had proudly raised their own banner there, a white skull on a black background, alongside the Malian flag. At the time, the ruling junta celebrated the moment as a symbol of the country's regained sovereignty, made possible by its "win-win" military partnership with Russia.
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