Major blow to Putin in Africa as Russian forces driven from Mali stronghold by separatists, jihadists

Russian mercenaries in Mali's Africa Corps have been forced to retreat from the northern city of Kidal after attacks by al Qaeda-linked rebels and Tuareg tribesmen, marking a significant setback for Moscow's influence in West Africa. Analysts suggest this could be a turning point, as the mercenaries failed to protect key cities and faced accusations of civilian harm.