Dozens of Wagner mercenaries were killed in northern Mali over the weekend in what has been described as a significant blow to the shadowy Russian group. Approximately 50 Wagner fighters were killed in an al-Qaida ambush along the border with Algeria. The mercenaries had been fighting alongside Mali's army when they were forced to retreat into jihadi territory and were ambushed.
Wagner confirmed that some of its fighters, along with Malian troops, were killed in a battle with hundreds of militants. Mali's army reported the loss of two soldiers, while 20 rebels were killed. Al-Qaida claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was meant to avenge previous massacres in Mali.
The Tuareg rebels reported that some of the mercenaries and Malian soldiers surrendered to them. This incident marks a significant development, as it is the first time such a large number of Wagner fighters have been killed on African soil.
Wagner has been active in Mali since late 2021, following a military coup. The group has been accused of carrying out raids and drone strikes that have resulted in civilian casualties. With an estimated 1,000 fighters in Mali, Wagner has been overconfident and overstretched since helping Mali's forces regain control of key areas.
Analysts suggest that setbacks like the recent ambush highlight the risks associated with private military companies operating in conflict zones. The incident is expected to impact Wagner's future operations in the region, as they may reconsider their strategies and deployments.
