Russian paramilitary carried out air strikes in Mali as rebels advanced, footage shows

Russian-linked paramilitary forces carried out air strikes against advancing rebel positions in northern Mali, according to footage verified by BBC Africa Eye. The strikes, near the town of Tessalit, came as Tuareg-led separatist fighters attempted to retake territory lost to Mali's junta in 2024. Russian Defence Ministry officials did not comment on the operation, which appears to use Mi-24 helicopters and unmanned drones.

Mali's military government, in power since the 2021 coup, has leaned increasingly on Russian support since severing ties with France and ending the UN peacekeeping mission. According to the BBC investigation, drone footage captured at least three strike sites with secondary explosions, suggesting fuel or ammunition stockpiles were hit. Rights groups warn that civilian casualties from earlier Russian-linked operations in Mali remain undocumented.

The episode underscores the deepening Russian footprint across the Sahel. Burkina Faso and Niger, both led by juntas, have signed similar security arrangements with Moscow. Western analysts say the cooperation gives Russia leverage on mineral and uranium concessions, while juntas value air power that France and the UN withdrew. The African Union has called for an independent inquiry.