Russian paramilitary operations in Mali
One page that accretes the verified record as the story develops. Every fact keeps its date and its sources.
Russia's influence in West Africa analysis
Africa Corps' role in three Sahel countries extends beyond its stated mission of helping governments fight jihadist insurgencies.
Africa Corps is thought to have 200 to 300 men in Niger.
Gen Abdourahamane Tiani seized power in Niger in a July 2023 coup.
Niger mutiny tests Russia's role in the Sahel
Niger's military government contained an attempted mutiny in the capital Niamey.
French forces withdrew from Niger after relations with the military government collapsed following the 2023 coup.
Africa Corps is a Russian force operating under the Ministry of Defence that took over much of the Wagner Group's role in Africa after Moscow reorganised its operations following the death of Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in 2023.
Tuareg rebels free more Malian soldiers in prisoner swap
Mali has been fighting a civil war since 2012.
FLA spokesman Mohamed El Maouloud Ramadane publicly welcomed Inkinane Ag Attaher's release on Facebook.
Algeria has been helping to mediate the release of Malian soldiers, according to sources in Mali.
Russian paramilitaries in Mali kill nine including children, HRW reports
“They need to promptly and impartially investigate these abuses, and hold all those responsible to account, including Malian military personnel,”