Headlines

Russian influence is replacing French influence in several Central African nations, amid the alarming growth of radical Islamist movements.

Lagos, Apr.25 (DPnet).– In Mali, West Africa, armed groups have launched one of the largest coordinated attacks seen in recent years, targeting multiple cities across the country. The rebel forces include Islamist militants linked to Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an Al-Qaeda-affiliated group, along with Tuareg rebels from the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) and Boko Haram terrorists affiliated with ISIL (ISIS).

The attacks have affected the capital, Bamako, as well as at least three other locations  –Sevare, Kidal and Gao– with heavy gunfire and explosions reported around government buildings and major military installations, signaling a highly organized offensive.

There’s video footage circulating on social media showing some of these fighters entering the residence of the governor of Kidal. Kidal is not the biggest town in the north but it’s high in symbolism because whoever holds the town of Kidal controls the north.

In Bamako, sustained gunfire and explosions were heard near the main airport, forcing the cancellation of incoming and outgoing flights. Similar incidents have been reported in Sevare, Kidal, and the northern city of Gao.

While the Malian government says fighting is ongoing, officials claim the situation remains under control and its security forces are "currently engaged in repelling the attackers." Reports indicate that Russian backed "Africa Corps" mercenaries are fighting alongside Malian forces in several locations, including the capital. Besides Mali, Africa Corps is also active in other African countries, including Equatorial Guinea ⁠and the Central African Republic.

However, Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane, a spokesperson for the rebels, claimed that fighters have seized control of multiple areas and warned neighboring Sahel countries against intervening.

The African Union (AU) has condemned the armed attacks across Mali, warning of the threat to civilians and stability. AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf is closely following developments.

The Mali government broke ties with France, the former colonial power, and expelled the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali (MINUSMA), which completed its withdrawal in 2023, ending a decade-long presence in the country.