**Russian and Malian Forces Foil Coordinated Terrorist Attacks**
Mali's military, with support from Russia's Africa Corps, successfully repelled a series of coordinated terrorist assaults across multiple locations in the country, resulting in the deaths of at least 26 militants. The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) reported the developments in an official statement released on Saturday.
The attacks targeted military positions in several towns, including Aguel-Hoc, Anefis, Gao, Sevare, and Kenioroba. FAMa confirmed that all assaults were "vigorously repelled" and assured that the situation was "totally under control."
The offensive was reportedly initiated by the Azawad Liberation Front, a separatist group, which announced its intent to seize control of Anefis through a post on social media. In response, Malian forces engaged in combat across the affected regions. According to initial reports, 20 militants were neutralized in Sevare, where they were found using motorcycles and equipped vehicles. In Gao, the conflict resulted in the death of one soldier and injuries to four others, alongside the neutralization of six terrorists and the destruction of one vehicle.
In a separate statement, FAMa highlighted the collaborative efforts with the Africa Corps, indicating that they successfully countered simultaneous assaults on the towns of Konna and Somadougou. The military noted that the toll on the enemy forces was particularly significant during these operations.
The African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, condemned the attacks, labeling them as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats posed by terrorism and violent extremism in Mali and the broader Sahel region. Youssouf extended condolences to the families of those affected and reiterated the AU's commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at combating terrorism and restoring stability in the region.
Mali has been grappling with a jihadist insurgency since 2012, which has also affected neighboring countries such as Burkina Faso and Niger. In recent years, the military-led governments of these nations have severed defense ties with France, expelled French troops, and accused Paris of complicity in regional terrorism. Consequently, they have sought security assistance from Russia.
The Africa Corps, a unit of the Russian Defense Ministry deployed in Mali, has been providing crucial air support to Malian forces. This support has been instrumental in preventing the militants from taking control of strategic locations, including the presidential palace in Bamako. Earlier reports indicated that over 200 terrorists were killed in previous engagements, underscoring the ongoing intensity of the conflict.
As the situation in Mali continues to evolve, the collaboration between Malian forces and Russian military support remains a focal point in the fight against terrorism in the region. The recent successful repulsion of the coordinated attacks reflects the ongoing challenges faced by the Malian government in securing stability and safety for its citizens.