Mali crisis: can political solutions end the turmoil?

Recent coordinated offensives across key cities in Mali—including Bamako, Kati, Kidal, Gao, Sévaré, and Mopti—have escalated tensions, with both the Front de Libération de l’Azawad (FLA) and the Jama’at Nusrat ul-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) claiming responsibility. The attacks, occurring simultaneously, mark a significant escalation in the country’s prolonged instability.

The Malian junta, led by General Assimi Goïta, made a public appearance just days after the assaults, standing alongside the Russian ambassador. During the meeting, the transitional leader highlighted the “strength of cooperation with the Russian Federation”, though ongoing negotiations suggest a complex geopolitical landscape. Reports indicate that mercenaries from Africa Corps have initiated talks to withdraw from Kidal, a city now under FLA control, with rebels demanding their complete departure from the country.