A recent battle in Mali between Russian Wagner mercenaries and Tuareg rebels has resulted in significant casualties for the Russian forces, including experienced veterans from conflicts in Ukraine, Libya, and Syria.
The defeat raises questions about Moscow’s ability to effectively combat separatists and extremist groups in the Sahel region.
Dozens of Russian mercenaries are believed to have been killed or captured during the desert ambush near Tinzaouaten, a town on the Algerian border.
Among the casualties were several veterans of the Bakhmut siege in Ukraine, a particularly brutal conflict.
The incident highlights the dangers faced by Russian mercenaries working for military juntas in the region.
It also casts doubt on Moscow’s ability to succeed where Western and UN troops have previously failed.
The Russian Ministry of Defense has not provided any official comment on the losses, and the Malian government has downplayed the impact of the defeat.
However, the heavy casualties suffered by the Russian forces underscore the challenges they face in stabilizing the volatile region.