Mali's military leader Assimi Goita met with the Russian ambassador to the East African country, his office reported on Tuesday, releasing photos of the encounter. This marked Goita's first public appearance since weekend rebel attacks that killed one of his ministers and targeted key military installations.

The meeting came as Russia earlier expressed its desire for stability in Mali, where it has gained significant influence since Goita's junta seized power in a 2021 coup. The photos, though unaccompanied by statements, are seen as a signal of the regime's reliance on Russian paramilitary support.

On Saturday, West Africa's al-Qaeda affiliate and Tuareg separatists attacked Mali's main army base and areas near Bamako's airport, while driving Russian forces out of Kidal in the north. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed its Africa Corps units prevented a coup during the assaults, inflicting heavy losses on the rebels and protecting the legitimate government.

However, the ministry also confirmed that Russian mercenaries were forced to withdraw from Kidal. The Kremlin separately called for urgent peace and stability in Mali. Defense Minister Sadio Camara was killed in the attack, and Goita had not been seen since, raising questions about the junta's control.

Social media footage has emerged showing Russian mercenaries and Malian troops surrendering to rebel groups. Russia warned that Tuareg separatists are regrouping for fresh attacks. The weekend offensive, the largest in nearly 15 years, demonstrated unprecedented coordination between former foes—al-Qaeda fighters and Tuareg separatists—united against the military government and its Russian backers.

Source: www.aljazeera.com