Russia confirms its continued presence in Mali to assist the current government

Russia will continue its presence in Mali based on requests from the country’s current authorities, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

Peskov said that Russia remains committed to fighting extremism, terrorism and other negative phenomena in Mali, stressing that the presence is in line with the needs expressed by the Malian government. “Russia’s presence in Mali is due to requests made by the current government and we will continue to provide assistance in the fight against extremism and terrorism,” he said.

His comments came in response to statements by the Azawad Liberation Front, a Tuareg separatist group, which expressed its intention to force Russia to withdraw from Mali. Peskov reiterated that Russia’s operations in Mali aim to support the government in its efforts to address security challenges.

The continued presence follows the tragic death of Mali’s Russian-trained defense minister, Sadio Camara, who was killed in a suicide bomb attack over the weekend. The attack also led to the forced withdrawal of Russia’s Africa Corps from Kidal, a strategic town taken by Russian mercenaries in 2023. Moscow had to deploy helicopter gunships and strategic bombers to prevent the rebels from taking control.

Political analysts suggest that these recent events have tarnished Russia’s image as a security provider in Africa, with its strategic and economic interests on the continent facing growing challenges due to growing instability.