world
Mali Defence Minister Killed in Coordinated Attacks Amid Russian Forces Withdrawal from Kidal
Mali's defence minister was killed in coordinated attacks on military sites and his home near the capital Bamako. Tuareg rebels announced a deal for the withdrawal of Russian Africa Corps forces from the northern town of Kidal, which they now control. The attacks were claimed by al-Qaida-linked militants and involved jihadist fighters.
Apr 26, 9:42 AM·1m read6 sources
SEOS
+3
france24.comAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
Coordinated attacks in Mali killed the country's defence minister and targeted military bases, while Russian forces withdrew from a northern town under rebel pressure. The assaults occurred on Saturday, marking one of the boldest operations by insurgents against the military-led government.
Post by @sentdefender on X
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.
