• Wagner Group announces withdrawal from Mali after more than three years of operations.
• The Africa Corps, a Russian-controlled paramilitary force, will continue its presence in Mali.
• The shift occurs amid ongoing security challenges from Islamist insurgencies.

The Wagner Group has officially announced its withdrawal from Mali, concluding more than three years of operations in the West African nation. In a statement via Telegram, the group declared its "mission is complete" and proclaimed, "PMC Wagner is returning home." This announcement is significant as Mali has faced severe insurgency challenges since 2012, prompting the military junta to pivot towards Russian support after severing ties with France, its former colonial power, according to aa.

While Wagner departs, reports indicate that its roles will be assumed by the Africa Corps, a paramilitary force backed by the Kremlin. Sources from the region suggested that while Wagner will no longer operate in Mali, the Africa Corps is "stepping up." The transition represents a continuity in Russian military presence, with most Wagner personnel expected to integrate into the Africa Corps, as highlighted by diplomatic sources from the Sahel region, according to scmp and allafrica.

This shift in control comes at a time when Mali is grappling with increasing jihadist attacks. The African Corps is anticipated to enhance its training operations for Malian soldiers, a demand highlighted in light of recent violent incidents that have challenged the effectiveness of local forces. A European diplomatic source alluded to the continued need for military support from Russia, which maintains its grip on operations, according to scmp and allafrica.

As the transitional government in Mali struggles with internal challenges, including a crackdown on democracy and widespread discontent, the presence of Russian forces remains a contentious issue. Wagner's withdrawal may signal a tactical shift rather than a reduction in foreign military engagement in the region. The junta has previously welcomed such foreign assistance amid internal instability, according to aa, scmp, and allafrica.