The story so far · 2 days, October 7 to 8, 2026
One Turn followed this story across 2 editions, from Kidal, Mali on October 7, 2026. Newest first.
Tuareg separatist groups have sought autonomy for northern Mali, which they call Azawad, for decades. Mali's military government replaced French and UN forces with Russian support.
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Mali's armed forces, backed by Russia's Africa Corps, regained control of Kidal after days of airstrikes and ground fighting. The Azawad Liberation Front had held the town for five months.
Why it matters: Control of Kidal is a key symbol in Mali's long conflict and a test of Russia's military role in the Sahel.
Sources: Al Jazeera · See it on the globe
Mali's armed forces, backed by Russia's Africa Corps, recaptured the northern town of Kidal after days of airstrikes and ground fighting. The Azawad Liberation Front had held the town for five months and withdrew.
Why it matters: Control of Kidal is a key symbol in the struggle between Mali's military government and Tuareg separatists, and highlights Russia's growing military role in the Sahel.
Sources: Al Jazeera · See it on the globe