Mali: Wagner and Junta leaders in tough spot with series of embarrassing defeats and decisions to make

This week’s attacks on the #Mali capital of #Bamako highlight the junta’s difficulty in providing basic security for the country and its inability to degrade terror groups. They also signal further challenges the junta may face in the coming weeks and months. The attacks can be seen as a message to the junta, showing they are no longer out of reach, despite being protected by Russian mercenaries, many of whom were killed in these attacks.

JNIM, which has been increasing its activities both within and beyond Mali’s borders, sent a clear signal to junta chief Assimi Goita and his allies, including Wagner Group mercenaries. While the junta has largely focused on waging war against the Tuaregs in the central and northern regions, terror groups have intensified their campaign of death and destruction. Their main aim now appears to be targeting the Malian regime within its own capital.

While Russia has been steady in its support of the Malian junta, the killing in Bamako of many Russians this week, combined with the disastrous outcome of the Tinzouaten clash that saw dozens of Russian casualties, have reportedly raised concerns in Moscow. The situation in Mali is beginning to look unwinnable for Russia, echoing its experience in northern Mozambique, where Wagner Group suffered an embarrassing defeat and was forced to withdraw. A similar scenario may now be unfolding in Mali. More on what's happening in Mali is here: https://north-africa.com/04u5