Tuareg Rebels Claim Victory Over Malian Army and Wagner Mercenaries

Mali's Tuareg rebels reported heavy casualties among Malian soldiers and Wagner mercenaries after clashes near the Algerian border. The Malian army confirmed losses but downplayed rebel claims. The CSP-PSD group mentioned seizing vehicles and equipment, and a helicopter crash in Kidal. Reports indicate continued conflict in the region.

Mali's northern Tuareg rebels announced they had inflicted heavy casualties on Malian soldiers and Wagner Group mercenaries over two days of intense fighting near the Algerian border. The Malian army acknowledged the loss of two soldiers but claimed to have killed around 20 rebels.

The Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP-PSD), the rebel group involved, stated it had captured armoured vehicles, trucks, and tankers during the confrontations in Tinzaouaten. They also reported damaging a helicopter, which subsequently crashed in Kidal.

While the Malian army confirmed two fatalities and 10 injuries among their ranks, they characterized the helicopter crash as a routine mission mishap. Meanwhile, Russian military bloggers suggested that at least 20 Wagner Group mercenaries were killed in an ambush.

(With inputs from agencies.)