Dozens killed in jihadist attacks on villages in central Mali
Between 30 and 50 people are reported killed in jihadist attacks on villages in central Mali, in the deadliest single incident in weeks. The assault highlights a widening security vacuum after Russian-backed forces withdrew from a key northern base. The Malian junta is struggling to respond as the Sahel's security situation rapidly deteriorates.
Local sources have reported between 30 and 50 deaths in coordinated attacks on several villages in central Mali, in what would be the deadliest single incident in the country in weeks. Officials are still working to verify the casualty toll. The assaults are believed to have been carried out by either the Islamic State Sahel Province or al-Qaeda-linked JNIM.
The attacks underscore a widening security vacuum. Russia-backed Africa Corps fighters have recently pulled back from a key base in northern Mali, opening space for insurgent advances. The military junta in Bamako, which expelled Western forces and leaned on Moscow's mercenary network, now faces declining Russian backing.
The deteriorating security picture across the Sahel is rippling into West Africa's gold, lithium and uranium supply chains. China's decision last week to scrap tariffs on imports from all but one African nation underscores how the regional balance of power is shifting again.
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