Russia's PMC Wagner Admits Heavy Losses in Mali Fighting, Videos Show Dozens of Bodies

Russia's PMC Wagner admits heavy losses in Mali, fighting Tuareg rebels. Social media shows bodies, Russia's involvement raises concern. 

A large number of casualties were reported as Russia's private military company (PMC) Wagner faced significant losses while fighting a Tuareg rebel alliance in northern Mali.

Intense Battle in Northern Mali

The battle took place over the course of five days from July 22nd near the town of Tinzaouaten, close to Mali's border with Algeria. Wagner fighters claimed to have initially gained the upper hand, stating that they had "destroyed most of the Islamists." However, the militants regrouped and returned with a force of over 1000, resulting in a fierce and prolonged conflict.

Heavy Losses Incurred

Although specific figures were not released, it is believed that a large number of PMC Wagner fighters lost their lives in the battle. Reports from the state-run news agency TASS indicated that only three Russian fighters were thought to have survived, with their commander, Sergey Shevchenko, among the deceased.

Tuareg Claims and Social Media Footage

The Tuareg rebel alliance, known as the Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP-DSA), asserted that they had inflicted substantial casualties on the opposing forces. Videos and images shared on social media depicted the aftermath of the battle, with bodies strewn across the desert and scenes of destruction.  

The CSP-DSA reported that they had seized armored vehicles and tanks during the conflict. Furthermore, spokesman Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane stated that they had caused "heavy losses of human life," with ongoing efforts to pursue enemy troops.       

Unverified Reports and Allegations

While the exact number of casualties among Wagner forces remains unverified, the Malian army confirmed the deaths of two soldiers and the injury of 10 others. Additionally, allegations of misconduct and atrocities have emerged, with claims that Malian and Wagner soldiers were involved in the killing of civilians and looting of property.  

Expanding Russian Involvement in Africa

The incident in Mali sheds light on the growing presence of Russian mercenaries in various African nations. In recent years, countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have turned to these private military groups to supplement their own forces and combat extremist organizations.   

The Impact of PMC Wagner's Losses

The significant losses suffered by PMC Wagner in the conflict have raised concerns about the future of Russian military involvement in the region. Furthermore, the allegations of misconduct and human rights abuses will likely result in heightened scrutiny and international pressure on both the Russian government and the private military company.   

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