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Tensions within Mali’s military have intensified following revelations that Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group — and their successor, the Africa Corps — have disrupted military cohesion, undermined counterterrorism efforts, and fostered deep resentment among Malian forces.
A new investigative report by The Sentry, an investigative research group, reveals that Wagner, which arrived after Mali’s 2020–2021 coups to replace French and UN forces, often operated outside the national military chain of command. Mercenaries conducted unilateral missions, seized government equipment, and prioritized their own forces for critical support such as medical evacuations — leaving Malian troops stranded and ill-equipped during insurgent attacks. The fallout has not only led to operational failures but also a rise in civilian casualties, with many abuses attributed to Wagner or joint operations.
Despite Wagner’s official exit in June, their presence has been reconstituted through Africa Corps, composed largely of former Wagner fighters and backed by the Kremlin. While political ties between Bamako and Moscow grow — exemplified by joint ventures like the SOROMA-SA gold refinery — internal military rifts are widening. Malian soldiers and generals have reportedly been purged for criticizing Russian involvement, and fears of another coup are rising. As the security situation worsens and jihadist violence escalates, Mali’s military is left grappling with fractured leadership and foreign allies whose presence, many argue, has brought more harm than help.
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