Mali Deteriorates as Defense Minister Killed Amidst Jihadi Gains and Russian Support Failure
Mali’s defense minister was killed in a large-scale jihadi and rebel offensive that saw several towns and military bases seized. The coordinated attacks, the largest in the capital and other cities, involved separatists and al-Qaida-linked militants for the first time. Separatists claim control of the key northern city of Kidal, signaling a significant shift in the ongoing conflict. These events represent a major blow to the junta and its Russian security partners, underscoring the worsening security situation in the region.
John Q. Hosedrinker