Russia claims its Africa Corps group prevented coup in Mali after rebels seize towns

Russia's Ministry of Defense has stated that its Africa Corps, a group succeeding the Wagner mercenary force, thwarted a coup attempt in Mali over the weekend. The ministry claims its forces engaged in over 24 hours of combat in Kidal, a desert town near the Algerian border, despite being outnumbered and surrounded. Russia alleges that the insurgents suffered significant losses while avoiding civilian casualties. The ministry also suggested, without offering proof, that European and Ukrainian instructors trained the militants involved.

This development highlights the ongoing geopolitical influence and military activities of Russian-linked forces in Africa, particularly in Mali, and suggests continued instability in the region.