What Role Does Russia Play in Mali and Sahel Security?
Russia's role in Mali and the Sahel is under scrutiny after large-scale coordinated attacks by armed groups, including the seizure of Kidal and the killing of Mali's defense minister. Russian Africa Corps forces withdrew from Kidal, raising questions about the effectiveness of their military partnership with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Analysts say the attacks have damaged Russia's credibility as a security provider in the region.