Tuareg rebels in Mali have launched a coordinated offensive against the military junta and demanded the withdrawal of Russian fighters supporting the government.The offensive involved an alliance of Tuareg separatists, Fulani and Arab rebels, and al-Qaeda-linked fighters who made gains in several northern and central cities, including Kidal and Sevare, and entered the capital, Bamako.The rebels, represented by the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), stated their objective is for Russia's Africa Corps to permanently withdraw from Mali.The military government, led by President Assimi Goita, has been backed by Russian forces since the 2020 coup that brought the junta to power.During the... [Continue Reading]
France has advised its citizens to leave Mali immediately following a series of coordinated attacks by separatist fighters and Islamist militants.The French foreign ministry described the security situation in Mali as "extremely volatile" and warned against all travel to the country.The attacks occurred over the weekend and included explosions and sustained gunfire in multiple locations, including the capital city, Bamako.In Kati, a town near the capital, Mali's defence leader Sadio Camara was killed in an apparent suicide bombing by militants.Separatist forces have also taken control of the northern city of Kidal.Mali's military leader, General Assimi Goïta, stated that the security... [Continue Reading]
Armed groups launched coordinated attacks across Mali on April 25, 2026, targeting military positions nationwide including in the capital, Bamako.The Mali Army confirmed ongoing fighting as security forces engaged to repel the attackers.Explosions and sustained gunfire were reported near the Kati military base, a key installation outside Bamako, and around Modibo Keïta International Airport.Soldiers have blocked roads in these areas amid the clashes.Gunmen also took control of neighborhoods in the northeastern city of Kidal, with exchanges of gunfire reported.Additional attacks occurred in Gao in the northeast and Sevare in central Mali.The US Embassy in Mali advised its citizens to shelter... [Continue Reading]