Russia’s Wagner Group has announced its withdrawal from Mali, marking the end of its military involvement in the West African nation. The group’s departure comes after it played a key role in the Malian junta’s reestablishment of control over critical regional centers. The Africa Corps, a French military force deployed under the African Union’s peacekeeping mission, will remain in Mali to ensure continued stability and support the country’s political transition.
The decision by Wagner Group to withdraw aligns with broader Russian foreign policy shifts, as Moscow seeks to reduce its military footprint in regions with complex political dynamics. Analysts suggest that this move may reflect a strategic recalibration in Russia’s approach to Africa, focusing on economic partnerships rather than direct military engagements. Meanwhile, the Africa Corps’ continued presence underscores France’s commitment to regional security and its role in stabilizing post-conflict states in the Sahel region.