Russia’s Wagner Group has officially ended its 3.5-year mission in Mali, announcing its withdrawal after claiming victory in curbing Islamist insurgencies. The group’s Telegram post declared: "Private Military Company Wagner returns home"—a wrap-up that feels straight out of a spy thriller finale 🎬.
Wagner’s exit follows the military junta’s regained control of regional centers, though Russia isn’t leaving the Sahel empty-handed. The Kremlin-backed Africa Corps will maintain security operations, signaling Moscow’s ongoing influence in the region 🛡️.
Mali’s struggle against al-Qaida-linked groups has fueled instability for over a decade, displacing tens of thousands of young residents. Many risk dangerous journeys to Europe, with Spain’s Canary Islands becoming a grim symbol of desperation 🚤.
This shift comes after Mali’s 2021 coup ousted French and UN forces, turning to Wagner for support. Now, as the mercenaries depart, questions linger: Will Africa Corps replicate Wagner’s tactics—or rewrite the playbook? 🤔
