The Wagner Group has announced its withdrawal from Mali, claiming it has completed its mission of fighting Islamist militants alongside the Malian military since 2021.

The exit coincides with renewed jihadist attacks in the region, including deadly assaults on military bases in Boulikessi, Timbuktu, and Mahou.

Despite Wagner’s departure, Russia will maintain a presence in Mali through Africa Corps, a rival mercenary group.

Wagner’s exit raises questions about its effectiveness, as Mali continues to face a worsening insurgency, the BBC has reported.

The group did not clarify if it will also leave the Central African Republic, where its African headquarters are based.

Written by B.C. Begley