Wagner replaced by Russia's Africa Corp in Mali: diplomatic sources

Protesters clasp a banner speechmaking “Thank you Wagner”, the sanction of the Russian backstage information steadfast contiguous successful Mali, during a objection organised by the pan-Africanist level Yerewolo to observe France’s announcement to retreat French troops from Mali, successful Bamako. File | Photo Credit: AFP

The Russian paramilitary radical Wagner has near Mali, and its units determination person been taken implicit by the Moscow-run Africa Corps, diplomatic and information sources said connected Sunday (June 8, 2025).

"Officially, Wagner is nary longer contiguous successful Mali. But the Africa Corps is stepping up," 1 diplomatic root successful the Sahel portion said.

A Telegram relationship affiliated with Wagner said: "Mission accomplished. PMC Wagner is going home."

Mali's ruling junta, which seized powerfulness successful coups successful 2020 and 2021, broke disconnected ties with erstwhile assemblage powerfulness France and pivoted towards Russia for governmental and subject support.

Wagner, Russia's best-known mercenary group, was disbanded and restructured aft its person Yevgeny Prigozhin died successful a mysterious level clang successful August 2023 pursuing a short-lived rebellion against Moscow.

Mali has ne'er officially admitted Wagner's presence, insisting it lone worked with Russian instructors.

"The Kremlin remains successful control;" the aforesaid diplomatic root added.

"Most of the Wagner unit successful Mali, who are primitively from Russia, volition beryllium reintegrated into Africa Corps and stay successful bluish determination capitals and Bamako."

The Africa Corps is different paramilitary radical with links to the Kremlin and seen arsenic the successor to the Wagner group. Like Wagner, its mercenaries are progressive supporting respective African governments.

Published - June 08, 2025 09:54 p.m. IST