Tuareg Rebels Claim Heavy Losses in Fierce Clashes with Russian Mercenaries

Tuareg rebels in Mali have reported killing 84 Russian Wagner mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers in late July clashes. This marks one of Wagner's heaviest defeats since joining Mali's fight against insurgents. Despite the losses, Russia remains committed to supporting Mali's military government.

In a harrowing confrontation, Mali's northern Tuareg rebels announced on Thursday that they had claimed the lives of at least 84 Russian Wagner mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers during intense days of fighting in late July. This declaration arrives as Russia reaffirmed its commitment to backing the Malian junta.

The Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP) had earlier reported dozens of casualties around the northern border town of Tinzaouaten, while an al Qaeda-linked group stated that 50 Wagner fighters were killed in an ambush in the same area.

Despite these losses, thought to be Wagner's most significant defeat since providing military support to Mali two years ago, neither Mali nor Wagner have disclosed exact figures. In a rare statement on July 29, Wagner admitted to heavy losses, and Malian authorities have similarly acknowledged severe casualties without specifying numbers.

The heavy defeat has not deterred Russian-Malian relations. Russia's foreign ministry noted on Thursday that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov had communicated with his Malian counterpart, conveying Russia's unwavering support. This includes socioeconomic assistance, enhancing military capabilities, and military training, with no mention of the recent fierce encounters.

Following two coups in 2020 and 2021, the Malian military ousted French and U.N. forces combating Islamist insurgents for a decade, opting for Wagner's intervention. Meanwhile, the Malian administration accuses Tuareg and jihadist factions of collusion, a claim the CSP refuted, stating its solitary involvement in the battles.

The CSP also reported capturing seven Malian soldiers and Wagner operatives and seizing an array of weapons, ammunition, vehicles, and other assets. The Tuareg, dwelling in the Sahara including northern Mali, have long voiced grievances of marginalization by the government.

They initiated an insurgency in 2012 aiming for an independent Azawad homeland, which subsequently intertwined with an al Qaeda-linked Islamist revolt.

(With inputs from agencies.)