Mali rebels thwart Russian mercenaries in sandstorm ambush

Mercenaries formerly of the Wagner group say they suffered "losses" at the hands of 1,000 rebels.

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The military regime in the West African state had turned to the notorious Wagner group in 2021, seeking support in fighting jihadist and separatist forces.

On Monday the Russian outfit - which has now morphed into a group named Africa Corps - said it had joined Mali's military in "fierce battles" against separatist rebels and jihadist militants last week.

However, the separatists launched a major attack, killing an estimated 20 to 50 mercenaries, sources close to Africa Corps told the BBC.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4ng5zkn7dro

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