Russia's Africa Corps

Russia's 'Africa Corps' airstrikes in Mali reportedly killed civilians, according to a Human Rights Watch (HRW) report. The attack occurred in a village controlled by an Islamist armed group, which HRW described as apparent indiscriminate violence.

Mali faces its most severe security crisis as al-Qaida-linked JNIM rebels and separatist Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) collaborate, increasing attacks against military forces. This partnership has led to a 35% rise in fatalities from militant attacks in the first seven months of 2026 compared to 2024.

At least 50 Malian soldiers were killed when a joint Malian army and Russia's Africa Corps military convoy was ambushed. The attack occurred during a combined military operation involving both forces.

Islamic militants and a separatist group ambushed a Malian army convoy in northern Gao, killing or capturing scores of soldiers. The Malian army confirmed the attack and launched counterattacks, while rebels claimed joint responsibility and highlighted significant military losses. The convoy, possibly a logistics operation, was ambushed near Anefis en route to Gao, with rebels sharing unverified videos of soldiers surrendering and being transported.

Jihadi militants and the separatist Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) ambushed a Malian army convoy in northern Gao region, killing or capturing scores of soldiers, including forces from Russia's Africa Corps. The attack, claimed as a joint operation, caused significant casualties and damage, with rebels seizing military vehicles and inflicting 'great human losses' on Malian forces, according to statements from the groups.

Russia's Africa Corps, which replaced Wagner in Mali, is struggling one year later, as evidenced by damaged infrastructure at Camp 2 in Kidal.