Dozens of Russian Mercenaries Killed in Rebel Ambush in Mali, Their Worst Known Loss in Africa
The video is as triumphant as it is gruesome. Rebel fighters, rifles slung over their shoulders, step among more than a dozen bodies strewn across the sand and rocks. Off camera, the pop of gunshots can be heard. This scene unfolds in the vast deserts of northern Mali, where Russian mercenaries have suffered their most significant loss to date.
The Ambush
The Russian mercenaries were reportedly accompanying Malian government troops on patrol near the Algerian border when they were ambushed. The attack was claimed by a coalition of Tuareg rebels and the al-Qaeda affiliate in the Sahel, JNIM (Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin). JNIM announced that a “complex ambush” had resulted in the deaths of 50 Russians and several Malian soldiers, releasing videos showing burning vehicles and numerous bodies.
Unofficial Russian Telegram channels suggest the death toll could be as high as 80, marking a devastating blow for Russian paramilitary forces operating in Africa. This incident highlights the Kremlin's reliance on proxy forces to extend its influence in the region, particularly as it seeks to counter Western presence.
Ukrainian Intelligence Involvement
In a surprising twist, a Ukrainian official claimed that Kyiv had provided intelligence to the militants, enabling the successful operation against the Russian forces. Andriy Yusov, a representative of Ukraine’s Security Service, stated that the rebels received crucial information that facilitated the ambush.
The Aftermath
Initial reports indicated that Russian forces had inflicted heavy losses on the militants, but the situation quickly escalated. The jihadis regrouped and launched a series of coordinated attacks using heavy weapons, drones, and suicide vehicles. The last radio message from the Russian contingent indicated that only three fighters remained, continuing to engage in combat.
Among the casualties was the commander, Sergei Shevchenko, and possibly one of Russia’s most popular military bloggers, Nikita Fedyanin. His death, while not independently verified, has raised concerns within the Russian military community.
Unverified Casualties and Official Silence
The exact number of casualties remains unclear, with conflicting reports from various sources. The Malian armed forces reported only two soldiers killed, while Russian channels suggest a much higher toll. Notably, there has been no official comment from the Russian Ministry of Defense or the Kremlin regarding the incident, raising questions about the transparency of Russian operations in Africa.
Broader Implications
This ambush represents a significant setback for Russian mercenaries, who have faced losses in various conflicts, including Syria and Ukraine. The recent events in Mali indicate a growing coalition of militant groups, with shifting alliances among rebels in the Sahel. JNIM has been increasingly active, claiming multiple attacks in recent weeks, including an IED attack on a Russian vehicle.
The ambitious assault on the Russian-Malian convoy near the Algerian border not only underscores the vulnerabilities of Russian forces but also signals a potential shift in power dynamics within the region. As the situation evolves, the implications for Russian influence in Africa and the broader geopolitical landscape remain to be seen.