Twenty-one civilians killed in Mali drone strikes: Separatist group
Al JazeeraAug 24
Mali: Dozens of Soldiers, Wagner Mercenaries Reportedly Killed
Above: Military personnel from the Malian Armed Forces (MAF) are seen engaging in firearms training using AK47 rifles and live ammunition at a shooting range located in Koulikoro, Mali on March 9, 2017. Image copyright: Alexander Koerner/Contributor/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Dozens of soldiers and Russian Wagner mercenaries have been killed in an ambush near the Algerian border during days of fighting, according to a statement from Mali's rebel coalition Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP-PSD) on Sunday.
The rebels reported that a significant amount of equipment and weaponry was seized or damaged during the fighting in the Tinzaouatene district, and that prisoners were captured. They also mentioned that seven rebels had been killed and 12 wounded.
The Spin
Pro-Russia narrative
The tragic loss of Malian soldiers and the Russian instructors illustrates how difficult operations are amid Western covert operations to punish the Malian government. The military equipment used in the ambush suggests that the attack was coordinated by Western actors who have stepped up their activities, including the training of extremists, since last year. The sophisticated operation highlights the need for a serious reassessment of forces and capabilities to bring the situation under control and rid Mali of Western-backed terrorism.
Anti-Russia narrative
The massive rebel assault is a serious blow for Moscow and indicates that Mali remains far from stabilization despite the backing of Wagner mercenaries, notorious for war crimes. That a senior Wagner commander is said to be among the dead is another setback for the Kremlin. The Moscow regime sponsored a series of coups against democratically elected leaders across the Sahel to challenge Western dominance — a move mainly benefiting extremists. It's the local population paying the highest price for Russia's geopolitical ambitions.