Russia’s attempt in Azawad has failed—neither through the Wagner Group, which withdrew last June, nor through its successor, the “Africa Corps,” directly linked to the Russian Ministry of Defense. Despite promises to enhance security and support Malian authorities, the presence of Russian mercenaries turned into a burden, exposing them to both military and political attacks.
Deadly ambushes and a bloody start
In the very first week of the Africa Corps’ deployment, the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) launched a series of targeted operations. On June 12, 2025, an ambush on the Aglehoc–Anfif road destroyed military vehicles and killed members of both the Africa Corps and the Malian army.
The next day, June 13, a major convoy traveling from Gao to Aglehoc was attacked, leaving dozens dead, destroying more than 20 military vehicles, and capturing heavy equipment, weapons, and drones.
Escalation with drones
Over the following weeks, Azawadian operations became increasingly sophisticated, using drones:
- June 22 – Léré/Sampi (Timbuktu): Attack on a joint convoy of the Africa Corps and the Malian army.
- July 19 – Agleuhoc (Kidal): Drone kamikaze strikes on convoys.
- August 5 – Alkite (Kidal): Destruction of a truck, disruption of a military convoy.
- August 20 – Agleuhoc (Kidal): Precision strike on a camp occupied by the Africa Corps in the city—an attack described as “qualitative” for its accuracy.
Russian warplane shot down
A new embarrassment for Russia
A senior diplomat, quoted by Europe1, stated that the Africa Corps suffered over twenty attacks since its arrival in June, killing at least 70 Russian fighters. These repeated setbacks deliver a severe blow to Russia’s Sahel strategy and demonstrate Moscow’s inability to restore stability.
Azawad at the core of the equation
These defeats reinforce the notion that Wagner’s failure is being repeated with the Africa Corps. The Azawad Liberation Front continues to exploit the weaknesses of foreign forces on its soil. While Russia still seeks to consolidate its influence in Africa, the reality is that Azawad has become a war of attrition, threatening Moscow’s image as a credible military ally.
Previous failure: tested resistance
This latest failure follows Wagner’s defeat at Tinzawaten on July 25–27, 2024, when 84 Russian mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers were killed. This demonstrated that the resilience and tactical expertise of the Azawadians remain capable of inflicting heavy losses on foreign forces.
From promises of order to a cemetery for mercenaries: Azawad proves that any foreign force on its soil will become a legitimate target. Determination and organized resistance can reshape power dynamics, regardless of the strength or international backing of the invaders.
