A spokesperson for Mali’s Tuareg rebel alliance has vehemently denied receiving any external support during fierce clashes with the Malian army and its Wagner Group partners in late July. The fighting, which took place near the Algerian border, resulted in significant losses for both the Malian forces and the Russian mercenaries.
The rebels claimed responsibility for killing dozens of Wagner fighters and Malian soldiers in the battle for Tinzaouaten.
This marked a major setback for Wagner, which has been deployed to Mali for two years to assist the government in combating insurgent groups.
The conflict escalated after Ukraine’s military intelligence agency hinted at possible involvement in the rebels’ success.
Mali swiftly severed diplomatic ties with Ukraine over these comments, accusing Kyiv of supporting terrorism. Ukraine has denied any role in the fighting, calling Mali’s decision hasty and unfounded. Neighboring Niger followed suit, cutting ties with Ukraine over the same issue.
However, the Tuareg rebels have categorically refuted allegations of Ukrainian assistance. Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane, a spokesperson for the rebel alliance, told Reuters on Wednesday that they had received no outside help whatsoever.
The exact number of casualties on both sides remains unclear, with both Mali and Wagner acknowledging heavy losses without providing specific figures. Meanwhile, an Al-Qaeda affiliate claimed responsibility for an ambush in the same area, resulting in additional casualties.
The complex situation in Mali highlights the ongoing struggle between the government, supported by Russian mercenaries, and various armed groups, including Tuareg separatists and Islamist militants. The conflict has destabilized the region and raised concerns about the growing influence of Russia in the Sahel.