Russia's Mali Mission Faces Setback

0:00It's April 29th. This is Global News Today, driven by AI tracking the world in real-time. Molly's military junta, backed by Russia, just took some heavy hits from al-Qaeda-linked fighters and Twareg rebels in the North. Their defense minister got killed in a suicide blast, and Russian forces had to pull back from the key town of Qadal after helping take it last year. Moscow hit back with helicopter gunships and bombers to slow the push. The junta kicked out French and UN troops after coups in 2020 and 2021, then leaned on Russia for muscle. Leader Asimi Gowita met Putin in the Kremlin last summer, but now faces rebels eyeing big chunks of the desert north. Russia warns the insurgents are regrouping fast. Analysts say this, dense Russia's rep as Africa's top security partner, especially with its troops stretched in Ukraine. Just like those from the University of Cape Town, Call Molly a power center for Moscow in West Africa, linked to spots like Burkina Faso and Niger.

1:02Losing ground here questions if Russia can protect allies or grab minerals like gold and lithium. Russia's got skin in the game with deals for a gold refinery, lithium projects, solar plants, and even nuclear power talks. Their Africa Corps, about 2,000 ex-wagoner guys under the defense ministry, vows to stay put despite the setback. Right now, the Hunter looks weakened, and what happens next could reshape Russia's whole footprint in the Sahel. Moscow's ambassador just reaffirmed their standing by Molly, but everyone's watching if they bounce back or fold.