Russian Forces in Mali

By Olanre Francis

Reports from Mali indicate that Russian military units, now operating under the banner of the Africa Corps, have been implicated in severe human rights abuses. Witnesses and refugees describe widespread atrocities—including killings, sexual violence, and mutilations—carried out under the pretext of combating extremist groups.

The Africa Corps appears to have replaced the Wagner mercenary organization, which was previously accused of similar crimes across Africa. Locals say the personnel, equipment, and tactics remain unchanged, with violence intensifying.

Survivors recount villages being burned, civilians shot without warning, and bodies discovered with organs missing. Refugees shared video evidence of destruction and testified to abductions and killings by masked soldiers.

The Sahel region has become one of the deadliest zones for extremist violence. Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have distanced themselves from Western allies, turning to Russia for military support against al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates.

Russia’s foreign ministry confirmed the Africa Corps’ presence in Mali, stating it was at the request of Malian authorities. However, Mali’s government has not publicly acknowledged the deployment.

Civilian deaths attributed to Russian forces reportedly decreased from 911 last year to 447 this year, though analysts caution that underreporting is likely due to fear among communities.

Mali withdrew from the International Criminal Court in 2023, and UN peacekeepers have left the country. UN experts say the ruling junta has ignored requests for investigation and accountability.