An investigative report released Wednesday by The Sentry, titled “Collapse of the Mercenaries: Wagner’s Failure in Mali,” has revealed that the operations of Russia’s Wagner Group have fueled deep discontent within Mali’s army and government while creating serious security gaps.
According to the report, Wagner fighters operated outside the Malian army’s chain of command, using local military equipment and carrying out missions without prior authorization or coordination. These practices often resulted in the loss of equipment, vehicles, and personnel, leaving Malian soldiers without support during rebel attacks.
Based on interviews with officials from the Malian army, intelligence services, and the ministries of Finance and Mining, the report also highlights frustration among soldiers over the preferential treatment given to Russian mercenaries—such as rapid medical evacuation—compared to restrictions imposed on Malian troops due to fuel shortages.
The report further notes that recent arrests in Mali, linked to an alleged coup attempt, followed a meeting of senior officers where grievances—including the continued presence of Russians in command positions within bases—were discussed.
Wagner began operating in Mali after the withdrawal of French and UN forces in 2021. Although the group officially announced its departure last June, the Kremlin’s so-called “African Corps,” composed largely of ex-Wagner fighters, remains active in the country.
Meanwhile, international human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, have accused Wagner of committing serious abuses against civilians in Mali, such as extrajudicial killings, torture, and looting of resources.
