Russia's Wagner Group has officially withdrawn from Mali, announcing on its Telegram channel that its mission has been successfully completed. The group declared, "Private Military Company Wagner returns home," marking the end of a 3.5-year engagement in the West African state.
With all regional centers under the control of the military junta in Bamako, Wagner's exit comes after a strategic operation aimed at holding back Islamist groups. However, Russia continues its presence in Mali through the Kremlin-backed paramilitary Africa Corps.
For over a decade, Mali along with its neighbors Burkina Faso and Niger have battled insurgencies linked to armed Islamist groups across the Sahel. This ongoing conflict has driven tens of thousands of young Malians to risk dangerous journeys on small boats, aiming for new beginnings on the Canary Islands in Spain.
This turn of events opens a new chapter in the region. As Wagner withdraws, questions about the future of regional security and community well-being remain. Stay tuned for more updates on Mali's evolving political and social landscape. 🚀📰
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
