The Wagner Group is withdrawing from Mali after more than three years of battling Islamic militants, citing a completed mission.
The Kremlin-backed mercenary force claimed success in securing regional capitals and eliminating militant leaders, announcing its exit via Telegram.
Despite the withdrawal, Russia’s presence in Mali is far from over, as the Africa Corps will continue operations in the country.
The Africa Corps, under Russia’s Ministry of Defense, stated there would be no change to the military contingent in Mali.
Wagner entered Mali in late 2021 after a coup prompted the exit of French troops and UN peacekeepers from the country.
Their mission coincided with Russia’s broader strategy to replace declining Western influence in Africa with military and political alliances.
Since Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin’s death in 2023, Moscow has consolidated its overseas operations under direct state control.
Analysts say the Africa Corps is Russia’s attempt to institutionalise its paramilitary presence, reducing reliance on independent contractors.
Security experts suggest Wagner’s exit may follow devastating recent losses to al-Qaida-linked fighters in central Mali.
Dozens of Malian troops and Russian mercenaries were reportedly killed in a major JNIM attack on a military base last week.
Mali and Wagner have both faced accusations of human rights violations, including summary executions and forced disappearances.
UN experts and Human Rights Watch have urged investigations into alleged atrocities committed by both forces.
There has been no joint announcement from Malian authorities or Wagner, fuelling speculation of internal disagreements or strategic shifts.
Observers believe the Africa Corps may focus less on combat and more on training and equipping Malian forces going forward.
Unlike Wagner’s aggressive tactics, Africa Corps is seen as a lighter, more formal extension of Russian state power in Africa.