Overview
- Al‑Qaida‑linked JNIM and the Tuareg FLA began a coordinated assault across Mali on Saturday, hitting bases in Bamako, Kati, Gao, Mopti, Sévaré and other towns.
- Kidal is now in rebel hands after Malian and Russian Africa Corps units withdrew, with Moscow’s force acknowledging losses and calling the situation difficult.
- Defense Minister Sadio Camara died after a car bomb struck his residence in Kati, the government said.
- Assimi Goïta reappeared in a televised address on Tuesday saying the situation was under control, as Russia’s ambassador pledged continued support.
- Three rights groups filed a case at the African Court on April 20 over 2022 killings and rapes linked to Malian troops and Russian fighters, adding pressure over accountability.