Mali Defence Minister Killed in Coordinated Attacks Amid Russian Forces Withdrawal from Kidal

and Attacks Mali's Defence Minister

Sadio Camara was killed in attacks on military sites and his home. Jihadist fighters coordinating with Tuareg rebels used a car bomb near the capital Bamako to kill him, military sources and his family confirmed. The attacks were carried out by jihadist groups, with al-Qaida-linked militants claiming responsibility for strikes on army bases.

Tuareg rebels announced the agreement, which left the northern town under their total control. The Russian troops abandoned their partner Malian forces at the base during the pullout. Video showed Russian Africa Corps forces leaving Kidal, following an ultimatum issued the previous day by Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM).

The withdrawal and attacks highlight ongoing conflict between Mali's junta, rebels, and jihadist groups in the north. Tuareg rebels have been fighting Mali's army, with jihadists coordinating in some operations. The events follow a campaign by insurgents against the government, with the Kidal withdrawal leaving rebels in control of the area.