The Malian army fought this Saturday against the rebels of the CSP-PSD coalition for control of Kidal, with significant support from mercenaries from the Russian paramilitary company Wagner. There have been tensions around this strategically important city in northern Mali for several days.
Published on: November 11, 2023 – 8:08 p.m
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With our regional correspondent, Serge Daniel
The Battle of Kidal begins. The clashes are currently taking place in a town called Alkite, about thirty kilometers away Kidal. Here, regular Malian troops, supported by mercenaries from the Russian paramilitary group Wagner, face Malian rebels who are part of the CSP-PSD coalition.
According to witnesses, there were clashes involving heavy weapons that lasted almost two hours this Saturday. The army convoy that left the city of Anéfis 24 hours ago consists of several vehicles.
But despite the great advantage that the Malian army offers it, it has not yet managed to assert itself. The rebels are on the ground and have disrupted official communications in Kidal. However, they also failed to achieve a decisive victory. There are victims on both sides.
According to our information, the fighting ended at nightfall this Saturday evening. This Sunday is likely to be crucial for what happens next, especially since the front can mobilize quickly.
Also read: Mali: Faced with “strategic moves” by the army, Kidal is on alert