Russian Forces Withdraw from Mali
Without a single shot being fired, Russia's Africa Corps and the Malian junta army have begun pulling troops out of the base in Aguelhok—the third major stronghold in northern Mali to be evacuated in recent days. This retreat follows an agreement brokered by Algeria. Over the past week, three key positions have been vacated: Kidal, Tessalit, and now Aguelhok.
On the morning of May 5, at least 30 vehicles departed the Aguelhok camp. That convoy later merged with one that had previously left Tessalit. Notably, as of April 25, roughly 100 Russian fighters were stationed in Aguelhok. The city of Kidal, which Wagner forces had recaptured from Tuareg fighters in November 2023, was abandoned on April 26–27. The following day, May 1, troops withdrew from the large Tessalit camp near the Algerian border.
Regional Situation
Approximately 2,500 Russian fighters remain in Mali today, with no complete withdrawal from the country planned. The Africa Corps' new objective is to concentrate its forces in central and southern Mali. This strategic shift aims to help General Assimi Goïta's junta maintain its grip on power. As one source put it, "Algeria never wanted foreign troops on its borders—neither the French in the past nor the Russians today."
"Algeria never wanted foreign troops on its borders—neither the French in the past nor the Russians today," a source said.
Thus, the Russian pullout from the Aguelhok base is part of a broader regrouping process carried out under an agreement designed to stabilize the region.
This withdrawal from northern Mali signals a shift in Moscow's strategic priorities in the area and reflects Algeria's efforts to reduce foreign military presence along its frontier. The move could reshape the balance of power in Mali, where the junta is struggling to retain control while relying on limited Russian support. Tensions remain high, as the remaining Russian forces are crucial to the junta's stability and the region's security.
The recent withdrawal of Russian forces from Aguelhok marks a significant turning point in Mali's ongoing conflict. As the situation evolves, rebels have regained control of Kidal, further complicating the landscape for the Malian junta. This shift in power dynamics could have lasting implications for the region's stability and influence of foreign military presence.