Russian state-funded private military company
Libya has seen a significant easing of conflict, with recent agreements on a unified budget and joint military exercises involving forces from both the eastern Libyan National Army and the UN-recognized government. The exercises, supported by the US and Italy, mark a step toward military integration after years of division and conflict. Meanwhile, investigations reveal ongoing financial and military support networks linked to Haftar's forces, including illicit arms transfers and influence over Libya's economy. Satellite images also show new drone activity at Al Khadim airbase, indicating continued military developments.
A report by The Sentry links Libyan businessman Ahmed Gadalla to financing Haftar's failed offensive, supporting Russian mercenaries and illicit financial activities. Gadalla's influence has expanded across eastern Libya's financial system, with ongoing efforts to procure arms for Sudan amid regional instability. Western calls for sanctions grow.
Legal groups have filed a case before the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights, accusing Mali of failing to prosecute atrocities committed by Wagner Group contractors in 2022. The case marks a first effort to hold a state responsible for hosting private military contractors involved in abuses in Africa.
Russia has announced the rescue of two hostages, Oleg Gret and Yuri Yurov, who were captured in Niger by Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin. The operation was conducted by Russia's Africa Corps in Mali, and the hostages are now being transported to Moscow for treatment. The event highlights Russia's expanding military presence in Africa and its efforts to displace Western influence in the region.
Since late April, al‑Qaida‑linked JNIM and Tuareg separatists have launched coordinated attacks across Mali, seizing Kidal and other northern bases, killing Defence Minister Sadio Camara and setting up checkpoints around Bamako. The junta under Assimi Goita has reassigned defence responsibilities and opened probes into alleged military complicity while Russia's Africa Corps has been pushed back in the north.
The Mali junta is facing a heightened security crisis after coordinated assaults by jihadists from JNIM and Tuareg rebels of the Azawad Liberation Front hit multiple locations, including Bamako’s outskirts and key northern towns. Defence Minister Sadio Camara has been killed, and Russia-backed forces are reported to be retreating from Kidal amid a widening challenge to state authority. The events are marking the most serious escalation since 2012.
The weekend assaults by al-Qaeda-linked militants and the Azawad Liberation Front have intensified the security crisis in Mali, with Kidal reportedly under rebel control as Mali and Russian forces withdraw. Officials warn of continued raids and a broader regional danger, while Russia denies a coup claim.
The Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin and allied groups have called for Malians to rise up against the military-led government and to establish Sharia law as security forces report checkpoints around Bamako and the seizure of Tessalit. The statements come after coordinated attacks that killed the defence minister and touched multiple bases nationwide.
France has been pushing a renewed Africa policy at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, aiming for a partnership of equals with English-speaking Africa and more Africa voice in global finance. Paris has signed defense pacts with Kenya and is promoting investments across energy, AI and agriculture as it seeks to reshape its role on the continent.
The Malian junta has sustained its grip on power as attacks by the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) and JNIM intensify, killing the defence minister and threatening key routes to Bamako. Russian assistance is backing government forces as rebel groups consolidate gains in the north and centre.
The United States has expanded deportations of third‑country nationals under deals with multiple countries, including Central African Republic and Equatorial Guinea. Rights groups warn of abuses as deportees face uncertain futures after removal from the U.S., with many lacking ties to the destination nations.
Britain has expanded counter-state threat powers to target proxy groups and those funding them after a spate of antisemitic attacks linked to Iran and other foreign actors. The measures will criminalise support for designated organisations and enable authorities to act against state-backed proxies.
Bozizé is facing trial in Bangui in absentia for crimes by his security forces tied to Bossembele abuses; three former officers are in pre-trial detention. The Special Criminal Court is pursuing allegations of murder, torture and rape linked to the presidential guard and other security forces.
Jihadists and Tuareg rebels have launched a coordinated assault across northern and central Mali, striking towns including Gao, Anefis, Aguelhok, Sevare and a prison near Bamako. The government says it has the situation under control as clashes continue into the day.