Wagner to withdraw from Mali after ‘completing mission’
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Wagner Declares Withdrawal from Mali After “Completing Mission”
The Wagner Group, a prominent Russian paramilitary organization, has officially announced its withdrawal from Mali, declaring the completion of its main operations in the West African nation. The announcement, made via its Telegram channel, signals a shift in the region’s counterinsurgency landscape, especially given Wagner’s high-profile involvement in combating jihadist insurgents alongside Malian military forces since 2021. The group stated it had “fought terrorism side-by-side with the people of Mali,” boasting that thousands of militants and their commanders were eliminated during their deployment. Wagner’s presence in Mali became more pronounced after the military junta, dissatisfied with former international partners like France, sought alternative security alliances to counter escalating extremist threats. As Wagner exits, questions now loom over the next phase of Mali’s fight against terrorism and the stability of the broader Sahel region.
Timeline of Wagner’s Involvement in Mali
Wagner’s operations in Mali began in 2021, following the military coup that ousted the civilian government. The junta, frustrated by the failure of international efforts to contain Islamist insurgents, turned to Russia and its private military contractors for support. This move coincided with the withdrawal of French forces, who had been stationed in the country to assist the former civilian leadership. Wagner quickly became entrenched in Mali’s security architecture, aiding in operations against various militant factions.
Telegram Statement and Claimed Successes
In its Telegram post, Wagner emphasized its claimed accomplishments, stating it had eradicated numerous jihadist threats and protected local communities from years of terror. According to the group, its fighters engaged in intense combat missions across central and northern Mali, regions plagued by al-Qaeda and Islamic State-affiliated militants. Wagner framed its mission as a humanitarian and anti-terrorist campaign conducted in solidarity with Malian citizens.
Military Withdrawals Amid Rising Violence
The announcement of Wagner’s withdrawal coincided with reports that Malian soldiers had evacuated a strategic base in central Mali. The Boulkessi base was reportedly abandoned following a second major attack in one week. Insurgents had previously stormed the base, resulting in dozens of soldier fatalities. The military’s decision to withdraw was described by a source as “strategic” and made under orders from higher command.
Intensification of Jihadist Attacks
Over recent weeks, Mali has witnessed a surge in extremist attacks. An al-Qaeda-affiliated group, Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM), claimed responsibility for multiple deadly incidents. One such assault occurred in the town of Boulikessi, where over 30 soldiers reportedly died. The following day, JNIM targeted the historic city of Timbuktu, with residents reporting explosions and gunfire throughout the night.
Southeastern Mali Under Fire
Insurgents have expanded their reach into the southeast as well. In the village of Mahou in the Sikasso region, militants launched another deadly attack, killing five soldiers. The increasing frequency and spread of violence have heightened fears about the ability of local forces to maintain control without significant foreign support, particularly as Wagner steps back.
Wagner’s Exit Sparks Strategic Concerns
Wagner’s sudden announcement has sparked debates over the effectiveness and long-term value of their operations in Mali. Although the group claims to have succeeded in its mission, the growing wave of jihadist violence suggests that the security vacuum may still persist. Critics argue that Wagner’s presence did little to address root causes or provide sustainable peace in the region.
Russian Presence to Continue Through Africa Corps
Despite Wagner’s departure, Russian influence in Mali is far from over. Fighters from Africa Corps—a new Russian-backed paramilitary force designed to inherit Wagner’s African engagements—are set to remain. This signals Moscow’s intention to retain strategic footholds in West Africa through evolving military partnerships.
Russia’s Expanding Influence in Africa
Russia’s military, political, and economic clout continues to expand across West and Central Africa. From arms deals to political alliances, Moscow is positioning itself as a dominant power in the region. Wagner’s exit from Mali may simply mark a transition in strategy rather than a reduction in Russian ambitions on the continent.
Future of Wagner in Central Africa Unclear
The Friday statement did not clarify whether Wagner would also be leaving the Central African Republic (CAR), where its African headquarters is currently based. With ongoing operations in CAR and other regions, the group’s overall trajectory in Africa remains ambiguous.
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