Russia’s African Corps will remain engaged in Mali

Significance

Tuareg rebels killed a large contingent of Russian fighters during the ambush in northern Mali. The men belonged to Russia’s African Corps, a group the Ministry of Defence created partially to replace the Wagner private military company (PMC).

Impacts

• Kyiv's claims to have provided support to the rebels signal a willingness to challenge Russia far beyond its own conflict zone.
• Ukrainian claims of involvement will damage relations with West African countries and undermine its efforts to win support on the continent.
• The junta in Mali is unlikely to be able to assert full control over the country’s remote northern areas.