The situation in Mali continues to escalate: Russian mercenaries are likely to have come under attack from al-Qaeda and Tuareg militants. After a joint attack, the city of Kidal was declared captured, and fighting continues in the region.
Russian mercenaries under attack in Mali
In Mali, Russian mercenaries from the so-called «African Corps» could have come under attack during the fighting between the JNIM (Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb) and Tuareg groups.
It is reported that during the joint operation of the militants JNIM and the Azawad Liberation Front (ALF), Russian mercenaries could be among the attacked forces in the region. There has been no official confirmation of mercenary casualties.
Capture of Kidal and control of Gao
The Tuareg and JNIM insurgents claimed to have captured the town of Kidal. They also reported taking control of positions in Gao.
The Azawad Liberation Front (ALF) released a statement on the seized territories. Local sources confirm the movement of militants in the cities of the region.
Destruction of a Russian helicopter
Yesterday, a Russian military helicopter carrying mercenaries was shot down in the region. The incident took place amid an escalation of hostilities.
Details on the number of casualties and the circumstances of the incident are being clarified. This is not the first case of losses among Russian forces in Mali over the past month.
Deterioration of the situation in the region
Since yesterday, the conflict between government forces, pro-Russian units and Tuareg rebels has escalated. The JNIM and the FLA have intensified attacks on strategic targets.
Local sources report troop movements and clashes in several settlements. The official authorities of Mali have not yet commented on the situation.
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