ECOWAS approves exit timeline for Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. Watch to know more.



Niger, Mali, Burkina FASO Exit ECOWAS

ECOWAS approves exit timeline for Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. Watch to know more.

Creation of the alliance of Sahel states has enabled these military regimes to at least partially insulate themselves from outside pressure for a return to civilian rule. The three regimes say they want to eradicate terrorism, assert their sovereignty and defend their territory against foreign threats. Watch in for more details!

ECOWAS Feud With Sahel Alliance Persists At The 66th Summit

Creation of the alliance of Sahel states has enabled these military regimes to at least partially insulate themselves from outside pressure for a return to civilian rule. The three regimes say they want to eradicate terrorism, assert their sovereignty and defend their territory against foreign threats. Watch in for more details!



Mali's junta chief on Wednesday sacked civilian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga and the government, days after Maiga issued a rare criticism of the military rulers.

The West African country, plagued by jihadist and separatist violence, has been led by the military since back-to-back coups in 2020 and 2021.

Maiga, who was appointed by the military after the second coup, had been seen as isolated in his position as prime minister, with little room for manoeuvre.

His dismissal creates further uncertainty in an already troubled context.

"The duties of the prime minister and the members of the government are terminated," according to a decree issued by Colonel Assimi Goita that was read out by the secretary general of the presidency, Alfousseyni Diawara, on state television ORTM.

Some key junta figures such as Defence Minister General Sadio Camara and Minister of Reconciliation General Ismael Wague are members of the government.

In June 2022, the junta promised to organise elections and hand over power to civilians by the end of March 2024, but later postponed elections indefinitely.

Maiga on Saturday publicly condemned the lack of clarity regarding the end of the transition to civilian rule.

He said the confusion could pose "serious challenges and the risk of going backwards".

Maiga, 66, previously served as a minister on several occasions and ran three times as a presidential candidate.

He was the civilian face of the junta's strategic pivot away from former colonial ruler France and toward closer political and military ties with Russia.

At the United Nations in September 2021, Maiga denounced what he called the "abandonment in mid-air" regarding the announced withdrawal of the French anti-jihadist force deployed in the country.

He said the withdrawal forced Mali to explore new avenues with other partners, at a time when the presence of the Russian paramilitary group Wagner loomed.&nbsp;

<h2>Increasingly untenable&nbsp;</h2>

Maiga is a key figure in the M5-RFP political movement that took part in protests against Mali's former civilian president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, who was toppled by the military in August 2020.

But Maiga began to distance himself from the junta, prompting speculation for months that he would be sacked.

In May, the M5-RFP movement published a statement openly criticising the military rulers after they failed to meet their deadline to hand back power to civilians.

A close ally of Maiga, who signed the statement, was sentenced to a year in prison in July before being released in September after his sentence was commuted.

Maiga endorsed the statement but had until now kept his position at the head of the government.

After his criticism of the junta on Saturday, Maiga's position became increasingly untenable.&nbsp;

An influential group supporting the military rulers, the Collective for the Defence of the Military (CDM), had called for him to step down within 72 hours.

Limited demonstrations took place on Tuesday in support of the military and calling for the prime minister's resignation.

Maiga's comments gave rise to speculation as to whether he was positioning himself for a possible future presidential election.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Mali's junta chief on Wednesday sacked civilian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga and the government, days after Maiga issued a rare criticism of the military rulers.

Mali's junta chief on Wednesday sacked civilian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga and the government, days after Maiga issued a rare criticism of the military rulers. The West African country, plagued by jihadist and separatist violence, has been led by the military since back-to-back coups in 2020 and 2021. Maiga, who was appointed by the military after the second coup, had been seen as isolated in his position as prime minister, with little room for manoeuvre. His dismissal creates further uncertainty in an already troubled context. "The duties of the prime minister and the members of the government are terminated," according to a decree issued by Colonel Assimi Goita that was read out by the secretary general of the presidency, Alfousseyni Diawara, on state television ORTM. Some key junta figures such as Defence Minister General Sadio Camara and Minister of Reconciliation General Ismael Wague are members of the government. In June 2022, the junta promised to organise elections and hand over power to civilians by the end of March 2024, but later postponed elections indefinitely. Maiga on Saturday publicly condemned the lack of clarity regarding the end of the transition to civilian rule. He said the confusion could pose "serious challenges and the risk of going backwards". Maiga, 66, previously served as a minister on several occasions and ran three times as a presidential candidate. He was the civilian face of the junta's strategic pivot away from former colonial ruler France and toward closer political and military ties with Russia. At the United Nations in September 2021, Maiga denounced what he called the "abandonment in mid-air" regarding the announced withdrawal of the French anti-jihadist force deployed in the country. He said the withdrawal forced Mali to explore new avenues with other partners, at a time when the presence of the Russian paramilitary group Wagner loomed. Increasingly untenable Maiga is a key figure in the M5-RFP political movement that took part in protests against Mali's former civilian president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, who was toppled by the military in August 2020. But Maiga began to distance himself from the junta, prompting speculation for months that he would be sacked. In May, the M5-RFP movement published a statement openly criticising the military rulers after they failed to meet their deadline to hand back power to civilians. A close ally of Maiga, who signed the statement, was sentenced to a year in prison in July before being released in September after his sentence was commuted. Maiga endorsed the statement but had until now kept his position at the head of the government. After his criticism of the junta on Saturday, Maiga's position became increasingly untenable. An influential group supporting the military rulers, the Collective for the Defence of the Military (CDM), had called for him to step down within 72 hours. Limited demonstrations took place on Tuesday in support of the military and calling for the prime minister's resignation. Maiga's comments gave rise to speculation as to whether he was positioning himself for a possible future presidential election. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mali Junta sacks PM Choguel Maiga after rare criticism of military rule

Mali's ruling junta has appointed General Abdoulaye Maiga as the country's new prime minister. The move comes as part of ongoing efforts to stabilize the nation following the recent military coup.

Mali's Junta Appoints General Abdoulaye Maiga as Prime Minister

An al-Qaeda-linked group has said it was behind an early morning attack in the Malian capital, Bamako. Armed men targeted a military training school and other areas in the city, the authorities said, blaming “a group of terrorists” for the assault.

Terrorists attack military school in Mali's capital Bamako

An extremist group that claims allegiance to Al-Qaeda said it was responsible for assaults on a military police school and an air base in the West African country of Mali. Watch in for more details!

Al-Qaeda affiliate JNIM claims responsibility for attacks in Mali

Denmark on Monday (August 26) announced plans to establish new embassies in Senegal, Tunisia, and Rwanda, as well as to enhance its diplomatic presence in other African nations.

Denmark on Monday (August 26) announced plans to establish new embassies in Senegal, Tunisia, and Rwanda, as well as to enhance its diplomatic presence in other African nations. The foreign ministry says that these new embassies are part of a broader “Africa strategy.” "In addition, the government will, among other things, increase the diplomatic muscle power at the embassies in Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria and Ghana," the statement said. Earlier this month, Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen hinted at this strategy during the Moderate party's summer conference. He also mentioned that the plan includes initiatives to attract more African students to Denmark. "We have a clear interest in the African countries looking towards us in Europe when they have to chart the course for their future. We must show that we can offer an attractive alternative to the increasing Chinese and Russian influence on the continent. We must do this, among other things, by investing more in Africa and doing more business with African companies, just as we must cultivate mutual understanding and, among other things, work to ensure that more young Africans can come to study in Denmark," said Rasmussen. Also read: No peace for Gaza as ceasefire talks fail in Cairo over Philadelphi corridor While the embassies in Senegal and Tunisia will be entirely new, the Rwandan embassy will be an extension of an existing Danish office in the country. Denmark is also set to upgrade its embassies in South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, and Nigeria, transforming them into regional hubs to improve diplomatic efforts across larger areas of Africa. Denmark to close embassies in Mali and Burkina Faso Additionally, Denmark has decided to close its embassies in Mali and Burkina Faso due to the limited scope for diplomatic action following recent military coups in the Sahel region. Alongside these changes, a special representative will be appointed to oversee matters in the African Great Lakes and Sahel region. (With inputs from agencies)

'Africa strategy': Denmark to open embassies in Senegal, Tunisia and Rwanda

Dozens of Wagner mercenaries were killed and a Russian helicopter was destroyed in an ambush by al-Qaeda-allied rebels in Mali. Watch in for more details!

Mali: Dozens of Russian mercenaries killed

Several Western and African media have been suspended in Burkina Faso. They have been suspended over their coverage of a Human Rights Watch (HRW) report. The report accuses Burkina Faso's army of extrajudicial killings.

Why did Burkina Faso suspend foreign media?

Malian Political parties and civil society groups jointly rejected on Thursday the ruling junta's order to suspend political activities and vowed to mount a legal challenge to what one opposition politician called the "dictatorial" move. The west african country has been under military rule since a coup in 2020. Tensions have risen in recent weeks, leading major parties and other organisations jointly to call out the junta on march 31 for not scheduling elections within the promised time frame.

Mali junta breaks promise on elections

On Thursday, Malian political parties and civil society groups unanimously rejected the governing military junta's order to suspend political operations, vowing to file a legal challenge to what one opposition leader dubbed the "dictatorial" measure. Mali has been under military administration since a coup in 2020.

Mali political groups reject Junta's order

The ruling Junta in Mali announced a suspension of all political activities in the country until further notice. They claim that this move is executed in order to maintain public order. Watch in for more detail!

Mali's Junta suspends political activities amid turmoil

Political parties in Mali have requested a time frame for presidential elections after the ruling junta failed to organise polls within a promised 24-month transition back to democracy. Watch in for more details!

Mali: 50 organisations sign joint statement demanding elections

An Italian couple and their son, who were kidnapped in Mali in May 2022, have been freed and were due to return to Rome on Tuesday, the Italian government said.&nbsp;

Rocco Langone, Maria Donata Caivano and their son, Giovanni Langone, had been seized from their home outside the southeastern Malian city of Koutiala by a "jihadist faction", it said in a statement.

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Tuesday's statement did not address the fate of a Togolese citizen seized along with the family.

The couple, in their 60s, and son in his 40s had lived outside Koutiala for several years in a Jehovah's Witness community.

"I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations on the release of our three compatriots kidnapped in Mali in 2022," Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said in a statement.&nbsp;

Her office said that despite the long captivity the family was "in good health".

It provided no details of their release.

The area where the family lived was "particularly infiltrated by jihadist militiamen", the government said.

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Meloni's office blamed the kidnapping on a faction linked to the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (JNIM), which is affiliated to Al-Qaeda.

The Sahel has been ravaged by a jihadist campaign that began in northern Mali in 2012, sweeping over into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger in 2015.

Mali has been ravaged by different groups affiliated to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, as well as by self-declared self-defence forces and bandits.

An Italian couple and their son, who were kidnapped in Mali in May 2022, have been freed and were due to return to Rome on Tuesday, the Italian government said. Rocco Langone, Maria Donata Caivano and their son, Giovanni Langone, had been seized from their home outside the southeastern Malian city of Koutiala by a "jihadist faction", it said in a statement.

An Italian couple and their son, who were kidnapped in Mali in May 2022, have been freed and were due to return to Rome on Tuesday, the Italian government said. Rocco Langone, Maria Donata Caivano and their son, Giovanni Langone, had been seized from their home outside the southeastern Malian city of Koutiala by a "jihadist faction", it said in a statement. Also Read | China’s ex-FM Qin Gang, missing from public view since months, resigns as lawmaker Tuesday's statement did not address the fate of a Togolese citizen seized along with the family. The couple, in their 60s, and son in his 40s had lived outside Koutiala for several years in a Jehovah's Witness community. "I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations on the release of our three compatriots kidnapped in Mali in 2022," Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said in a statement. Her office said that despite the long captivity the family was "in good health". It provided no details of their release. The area where the family lived was "particularly infiltrated by jihadist militiamen", the government said. Also Read | EU parliament passes controversial nature law despite political backlash, farmers’ protest Meloni's office blamed the kidnapping on a faction linked to the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (JNIM), which is affiliated to Al-Qaeda. The Sahel has been ravaged by a jihadist campaign that began in northern Mali in 2012, sweeping over into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger in 2015. Mali has been ravaged by different groups affiliated to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, as well as by self-declared self-defence forces and bandits.

Italian family returns home two years after being kidnapped in Mali

The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger on Sunday (Jan 28) announced that they were leaving the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) with immediate effect, stating it has become a threat to member states.

Issuing a statement, the leaders of the three Sahel nations said that it was a "sovereign decision" to withdraw from the West African bloc "without delay".

The decision by the countries was announced in a joint statement read out on Niger national television.

The military leaders further argued that they wanted to restore security in their respective countries before organising elections.

"After 49 years, the valiant peoples of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regretfully and with great disappointment observe that the (ECOWAS) organization has drifted from the ideals of its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism," Colonel Amadou Abdramane, Niger junta spokesman, said in the statement.

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They also accused the 15-member grouping of not being able to contribute to their fight against insurgencies linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State.

"The organization notably failed to assist these states in their existential fight against terrorism and insecurity," Abdramane added.

<h2>ECOWAS says ready for 'negotiated solution'&nbsp;</h2>

After Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger announced their immediate withdrawal, ECOWAS released a statement on Sunday (Jan 28) saying that it was ready for "a negotiated solution".

The three countries are "important members of the Community" and the bloc "remains committed to finding a negotiated solution to the political impasse", said ECOWAS.

It further added that it had "yet to receive any direct formal notification" from the countries about their exit. &nbsp;

Struggling to contain jihadist violence and poverty, the regimes have had strained ties with ECOWAS, especially after the military coups took place in Niger last July, Burkina Faso in 2022 and Mali in 2020 respectively.

The three nations were then suspended from the West African bloc with Niger and Mali facing heavy sanctions.

They have toughened their stance in recent months and joined forces in an "Alliance of Sahel States".

France in September withdrew its troops from the Sahel region, situated along the Sahara desert across Africa, intensified concerns over the conflicts extending southward to the Gulf of Guinea states of Ghana, Togo, Benin and Ivory Coast.

(With inputs from agencies)

The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger on Sunday (Jan 28) announced that they were leaving the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) with immediate effect, stating it has become a threat to member states.

The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger on Sunday (Jan 28) announced that they were leaving the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) with immediate effect, stating it has become a threat to member states. Issuing a statement, the leaders of the three Sahel nations said that it was a "sovereign decision" to withdraw from the West African bloc "without delay". The decision by the countries was announced in a joint statement read out on Niger national television. The military leaders further argued that they wanted to restore security in their respective countries before organising elections. "After 49 years, the valiant peoples of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regretfully and with great disappointment observe that the (ECOWAS) organization has drifted from the ideals of its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism," Colonel Amadou Abdramane, Niger junta spokesman, said in the statement. Also read: Finland elections: Finns head to polls in tight presidential race, amid Russia tensions They also accused the 15-member grouping of not being able to contribute to their fight against insurgencies linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State. "The organization notably failed to assist these states in their existential fight against terrorism and insecurity," Abdramane added. ECOWAS says ready for 'negotiated solution' After Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger announced their immediate withdrawal, ECOWAS released a statement on Sunday (Jan 28) saying that it was ready for "a negotiated solution". The three countries are "important members of the Community" and the bloc "remains committed to finding a negotiated solution to the political impasse", said ECOWAS. It further added that it had "yet to receive any direct formal notification" from the countries about their exit. Struggling to contain jihadist violence and poverty, the regimes have had strained ties with ECOWAS, especially after the military coups took place in Niger last July, Burkina Faso in 2022 and Mali in 2020 respectively. The three nations were then suspended from the West African bloc with Niger and Mali facing heavy sanctions. They have toughened their stance in recent months and joined forces in an "Alliance of Sahel States". France in September withdrew its troops from the Sahel region, situated along the Sahara desert across Africa, intensified concerns over the conflicts extending southward to the Gulf of Guinea states of Ghana, Togo, Benin and Ivory Coast. (With inputs from agencies)

Coup-hit Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger quit ECOWAS regional block

The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger announced Sunday their immediate withdrawal from the West African bloc ECOWAS. The leaders of the three Sahel nations issued a statement saying it was a "sovereign decision" to leave the Economic Community of West African States "without delay".

3 military-led West African states leave ECOWAS

More than 70 people were killed after a tunnel collapsed at a Malian gold mining site last week, a local gold mining group leader and a local official told AFP on Wednesday.

"It started with a noise. The earth started to shake. There were over 200 gold miners in the field. The search is over now. We've found 73 bodies," Oumar Sidibe, an official for gold miners in the southwestern town of Kangaba, told AFP, of the incident on Friday.

The same toll was confirmed by a local councillor.&nbsp;

Mali's ministry of mines in a statement on Tuesday had announced the death of several miners but did not give precise figures.

The government offered its "deepest condolences to the grieving families and to the Malian people".

It also called on "communities living near mining sites and gold miners to scrupulously respect safety requirements and to work only within the perimeters dedicated to gold panning".

Mali, which is among the world's poorest countries, is one of Africa's leading gold producers.

Gold mining sites are regularly the scene of deadly landslides and authorities struggle to control artisanal mining of the metal.

Mali&nbsp;produced 72.2 tonnes of gold in 2022 and the metal contributed 25 percent of the national budget, 75 percent of export earnings and 10 percent of GDP, the then minister of mines Lamine Seydou Traore said in March last year.

More than 70 people were killed after a tunnel collapsed at a Malian gold mining site last week, a local gold mining group leader and a local official told AFP on Wednesday.

More than 70 people were killed after a tunnel collapsed at a Malian gold mining site last week, a local gold mining group leader and a local official told AFP on Wednesday. "It started with a noise. The earth started to shake. There were over 200 gold miners in the field. The search is over now. We've found 73 bodies," Oumar Sidibe, an official for gold miners in the southwestern town of Kangaba, told AFP, of the incident on Friday. The same toll was confirmed by a local councillor. Mali's ministry of mines in a statement on Tuesday had announced the death of several miners but did not give precise figures. The government offered its "deepest condolences to the grieving families and to the Malian people". It also called on "communities living near mining sites and gold miners to scrupulously respect safety requirements and to work only within the perimeters dedicated to gold panning". Mali, which is among the world's poorest countries, is one of Africa's leading gold producers. Gold mining sites are regularly the scene of deadly landslides and authorities struggle to control artisanal mining of the metal. Mali produced 72.2 tonnes of gold in 2022 and the metal contributed 25 percent of the national budget, 75 percent of export earnings and 10 percent of GDP, the then minister of mines Lamine Seydou Traore said in March last year.

More than 70 dead after Mali gold mine collapse

The leader of the al-Qaeda-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), Iyad Ag Ghaly recently published a video speaking publicly for the first time since 2017 and warned about a new phase of Jihad after lashing out at the military regimes in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger and their Russian allies.

The video footage was authenticated on Wednesday (Dec 13) by SITE, an American NGO specialising in monitoring radical groups.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Treacherous governments’</h2>

In the 22-minute video, Ag Ghaly urged local Muslims to support his fighters against the “treacherous governments” of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger and the Russian paramilitary group Wagner, which is active in Mali.&nbsp;

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Notably, these countries have been plagued by jihadist insurgencies while their militaries have seized power through coups and have broken alliances with countries in the West, including France.&nbsp;

While jihadists are responsible for almost daily attacks on civilians and the army in these countries, Ag Ghaly in the video supposedly portrayed himself as a defender of the oppressed, according to a report by AFP.&nbsp;

The leader of the al-Qaeda-linked group also went on to criticise the Malian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga saying. The “Islamic cause is totally incompatible with your project,” he asid, adding that the need for governance under the Islamic law “cannot be compromised”.&nbsp;

Notably, AFP citing Malian commentators and officials said that Ag Ghaly is considered as an unavoidable figure in efforts to end the country’s prolonged crisis.

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He also denounced the situation in Burkina Faso, accusing Captain Ibrahim Traore’s regime of “persecuting, killing and displacing the population,” and welcomed the response of jihadists in the region.&nbsp;

<h2>Mali opens terror probe into jihadists, ethnic separatists</h2>

In late November, Mali’s judiciary announced that it was launching an investigation into several ethnic separatists and Al-Qaeda-linked jihadist leaders for terrorism and money laundering, including Ag Ghaly.&nbsp;

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The public prosecutor said the investigation was launched “not only against the terrorist leaders but also other members who were signatories to the 2015 peace agreement” and “have tipped over into terrorism”.&nbsp;

The Malian judicial officers also cited “extremely serious” acts that “are likely to constitute the alleged offences of criminal conspiracy, acts of terrorism, money laundering and financing of terrorism, illegal possession of weapons of war and munitions, and complicity in these same acts.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The leader of the al-Qaeda-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), Iyad Ag Ghaly recently published a video speaking publicly for the first time since 2017 and warned about a new phase of Jihad after lashing out at the military regimes in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger and their Russian allies.

The leader of the al-Qaeda-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), Iyad Ag Ghaly recently published a video speaking publicly for the first time since 2017 and warned about a new phase of Jihad after lashing out at the military regimes in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger and their Russian allies. The video footage was authenticated on Wednesday (Dec 13) by SITE, an American NGO specialising in monitoring radical groups. ‘Treacherous governments’ In the 22-minute video, Ag Ghaly urged local Muslims to support his fighters against the “treacherous governments” of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger and the Russian paramilitary group Wagner, which is active in Mali. ALSO READ | Putin flexes his muscles by launching two nuclear-powered submarines Notably, these countries have been plagued by jihadist insurgencies while their militaries have seized power through coups and have broken alliances with countries in the West, including France. While jihadists are responsible for almost daily attacks on civilians and the army in these countries, Ag Ghaly in the video supposedly portrayed himself as a defender of the oppressed, according to a report by AFP. The leader of the al-Qaeda-linked group also went on to criticise the Malian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga saying. The “Islamic cause is totally incompatible with your project,” he asid, adding that the need for governance under the Islamic law “cannot be compromised”. Notably, AFP citing Malian commentators and officials said that Ag Ghaly is considered as an unavoidable figure in efforts to end the country’s prolonged crisis. ALSO READ | Republican-led House authorises Biden impeachment inquiry; US prez calls it ‘baseless political stunt’ He also denounced the situation in Burkina Faso, accusing Captain Ibrahim Traore’s regime of “persecuting, killing and displacing the population,” and welcomed the response of jihadists in the region. Mali opens terror probe into jihadists, ethnic separatists In late November, Mali’s judiciary announced that it was launching an investigation into several ethnic separatists and Al-Qaeda-linked jihadist leaders for terrorism and money laundering, including Ag Ghaly. ALSO READ | Australian mother wrongfully jailed for death of four babies has convictions overturned The public prosecutor said the investigation was launched “not only against the terrorist leaders but also other members who were signatories to the 2015 peace agreement” and “have tipped over into terrorism”. The Malian judicial officers also cited “extremely serious” acts that “are likely to constitute the alleged offences of criminal conspiracy, acts of terrorism, money laundering and financing of terrorism, illegal possession of weapons of war and munitions, and complicity in these same acts.” (With inputs from agencies)

Leader of al-Qaeda-linked group in Sahel announces new Jihad phase against juntas

The United Nations on Monday (Dec 11) officially concluded its decade-old deployment in Mali, its spokesperson released a statement saying, in a move that Mali's military leaders ordered.&nbsp;

The mission, which was also known as MINUSMA, lowered the United Nations flag on its headquarters in the capital Bamako, its spokesperson Fatoumata Kaba told the news agency AFP.

She further said that this symbolic ceremony marked the end of the mission. However, some elements of it are still there, she added.

A "liquidation phase" is scheduled for Jan 1, 2024, where activities like handing over the remaining equipment to the authorities will occur.

<h2>UN troops' departure won't be delayed: Mali junta</h2>

Earlier, Malian foreign minister Abdoulaye Diop had released a statement saying that the withdrawal of United Nations peacekeepers from northern Mali would not be delayed and would happen on time by December 31.&nbsp;

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The UN expressed concerns that its drawdown may get hampered by an uptick in fighting in the northern part of the country.

"Everything must be done to ensure the work of MINUSMA is ended by December 31," Diop had said in a video posted on social media on Saturday evening.

"The government does not foresee any extension of this deadline," he said in the recording of comments he made to a meeting of the diplomatic corps in the capital, Bamako.

Mali's ruling junta took over power in the year 2020 and demanded the departure of the mission in the month of June which has been deployed since 2013.

The withdrawal of the United Nations stabilisation mission, MINUSMA, ignited fears that the fighting between the troops and armed factions would heighten over territorial control.&nbsp;

MINUSMA for a decade had maintained around 15,000 soldiers and police in Mali. The hostile acts had claimed the lives of around 180 members.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PressRelease?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PressRelease</a> - Closure of the MINUSMA camp in Sevare, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mopti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mopti</a> region. 
 
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As of Friday, more than 10,500 uniformed and civilian MINUSMA personnel had left Mali, out of a total of around 13,800 staff at the start of the withdrawal, the UN mission said on X.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United Nations on Monday (Dec 11) officially concluded its decade-old deployment in Mali, its spokesperson released a statement saying, in a move that Mali's military leaders ordered.

The United Nations on Monday (Dec 11) officially concluded its decade-old deployment in Mali, its spokesperson released a statement saying, in a move that Mali's military leaders ordered. The mission, which was also known as MINUSMA, lowered the United Nations flag on its headquarters in the capital Bamako, its spokesperson Fatoumata Kaba told the news agency AFP. She further said that this symbolic ceremony marked the end of the mission. However, some elements of it are still there, she added. A "liquidation phase" is scheduled for Jan 1, 2024, where activities like handing over the remaining equipment to the authorities will occur. UN troops' departure won't be delayed: Mali junta Earlier, Malian foreign minister Abdoulaye Diop had released a statement saying that the withdrawal of United Nations peacekeepers from northern Mali would not be delayed and would happen on time by December 31. Also read: At least 4 injured after airstrike on Kyiv; Biden to host Zelensky at W. House The UN expressed concerns that its drawdown may get hampered by an uptick in fighting in the northern part of the country. "Everything must be done to ensure the work of MINUSMA is ended by December 31," Diop had said in a video posted on social media on Saturday evening. "The government does not foresee any extension of this deadline," he said in the recording of comments he made to a meeting of the diplomatic corps in the capital, Bamako. Mali's ruling junta took over power in the year 2020 and demanded the departure of the mission in the month of June which has been deployed since 2013. The withdrawal of the United Nations stabilisation mission, MINUSMA, ignited fears that the fighting between the troops and armed factions would heighten over territorial control. MINUSMA for a decade had maintained around 15,000 soldiers and police in Mali. The hostile acts had claimed the lives of around 180 members. #PressRelease - Closure of the MINUSMA camp in Sevare, #Mopti region. 📖👉🏿 https://t.co/QWZ3HOxNof — MINUSMA (@UN_MINUSMA) December 9, 2023 × As of Friday, more than 10,500 uniformed and civilian MINUSMA personnel had left Mali, out of a total of around 13,800 staff at the start of the withdrawal, the UN mission said on X. (With inputs from agencies)

UN mission in Mali officially concludes 10-year deployment

Malian foreign minister Abdoulaye Diop has said that withdrawal of United Nations peacekeepers from northern Mali will not be delayed and would happen on time by December 31. The UN has expressed concerns that its drawdown may get hampered by uptick in fighting in the northern part of the country. Here, rival armed groups are seeking to seize territory as the UN pulls out.

The UN has also said that the military junta has not given permits to sent convoys to retrieve equipment from bases there.

The military junta seized power in Mali in the year 2020. The departure of UN peacekeeping mission MINUSMA by the end of 2023 is part of an ongoing security reconfiguration launched by the junta.

AFP has reported citing local officials that Russian mercenaries and Malian soldiers are arriving in the north to eventually replace UN soldiers who have been ordered by the junta to leave.

"Everything must be done to ensure the work of MINUSMA is ended by December 31," Diop said in a video posted on social media on Saturday evening.

"The government does not foresee any extension of this deadline," he said in the recording of comments he made to a meeting of the diplomatic corps in the capital, Bamako.

There has been an escalation in fighting in the north between majority-Tuareg separatist groups and the Malian army.&nbsp;

The jihadist Support Group for Islam and Muslims (GSIM), which is affiliated to Al-Qaeda, has also stepped up attacks on Malian army posts.

It is being feared that the violence may escalate when UN peacekeepers depart from their camps in Tessalit, Aguelhok and Kidal, the separatist bastion.

The separatists are against MINUSMA handing over its bases to the Malian military.

Diop said he was aware the UN had requested authorisation to send in logistics convoys by road to remove equipment from its northern bases and conduct air operations to protect the drawdown.

"We are working to find solutions," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Malian foreign minister Abdoulaye Diop has said that withdrawal of United Nations peacekeepers from northern Mali will not be delayed and would happen on time by December 31.

Malian foreign minister Abdoulaye Diop has said that withdrawal of United Nations peacekeepers from northern Mali will not be delayed and would happen on time by December 31. The UN has expressed concerns that its drawdown may get hampered by uptick in fighting in the northern part of the country. Here, rival armed groups are seeking to seize territory as the UN pulls out. The UN has also said that the military junta has not given permits to sent convoys to retrieve equipment from bases there. The military junta seized power in Mali in the year 2020. The departure of UN peacekeeping mission MINUSMA by the end of 2023 is part of an ongoing security reconfiguration launched by the junta. AFP has reported citing local officials that Russian mercenaries and Malian soldiers are arriving in the north to eventually replace UN soldiers who have been ordered by the junta to leave. "Everything must be done to ensure the work of MINUSMA is ended by December 31," Diop said in a video posted on social media on Saturday evening. "The government does not foresee any extension of this deadline," he said in the recording of comments he made to a meeting of the diplomatic corps in the capital, Bamako. There has been an escalation in fighting in the north between majority-Tuareg separatist groups and the Malian army. The jihadist Support Group for Islam and Muslims (GSIM), which is affiliated to Al-Qaeda, has also stepped up attacks on Malian army posts. It is being feared that the violence may escalate when UN peacekeepers depart from their camps in Tessalit, Aguelhok and Kidal, the separatist bastion. The separatists are against MINUSMA handing over its bases to the Malian military. Diop said he was aware the UN had requested authorisation to send in logistics convoys by road to remove equipment from its northern bases and conduct air operations to protect the drawdown. "We are working to find solutions," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN troops' departure won't be delayed: Mali junta

Islamist militants in Mali began a blockade of Timbuktu by cutting road access in august and then shut off river and air routes in an offensive that has put the city once again on the frontline of an insurgency. People living in cities in Mali under siege by Al-Qaeda-linked militants say they are facing shortages of food, fuel and medicine, and rapidly rising prices. The blockades have come as fighting intensifies between the army, who are backed by russian wagner mercenaries, and both islamist groups and ethnic tuareg separatist fighters.

Mali's Timbuktu is suffering

The military junta in Mali is aiming to take over a key United Nations military camp in the rebel stronghold of Kidal, reported AFP citing a senior official. Hostilities with Tuareg rebels in the region have resumed and the UN camp is one of the major prizes

The army has faced a series of attacks in recent weeks in northern Mali. These have coincided with the ongoing withdrawal of the UN stabilisation force MINUSMA. The UN force is handing over its camps to Malian authorities. Three more are due to follow this month. However, the separatists are claiming that these camps should be returned to their control.

The UN mission will vacate the Kidal camp along with two other sites (Ansongo and Mopti) in November, said Madou Diallo, the foreign ministry's director for international organisations in an online video on Monday.

Post this, only three camps should remain (Gao, Timbuktu and the capital Bamako). Handing over these camps would mark the "liquidation" of UN forces in Mali. AFP quoted an official who said that the Kidal camp was to be handed over between November 15 and 30.

Last week, a convoy of dozens of army vehicles left the city of Gao which is 300 kilometres southwest of Kidal. This set of speculation about an offensive against rebel bases in the Kidal region.

The convoy came under attack on Saturday and&nbsp;the army said that the soldiers had taken control of Anefis. It is a town 110 kms south of Kidal.

Almou Ag Mohamed, a spokesperson for the Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP), a coalition of armed rebel factions, confirmed to AFP that the army was in Anefis.&nbsp;

After a decade of conflict in the country, an offensive in the rebel bases in Kidal could mark a turning point.

After initially launching a rebellion in 2012, the predominantly Tuareg armed groups signed a peace agreement with the state in 2015, but in August they resumed hostilities. &nbsp;

Attacks against Malian army camps by both the separatist groups and jihadists have increased. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The military junta in Mali is aiming to take over a key United Nations military camp in the rebel stronghold of Kidal, reported AFP citing a senior official. Hostilities with Tuareg rebels in the region have resumed and the UN camp is one of the major prizes The army has faced a series of attacks in recent weeks in northern Mali.

The military junta in Mali is aiming to take over a key United Nations military camp in the rebel stronghold of Kidal, reported AFP citing a senior official. Hostilities with Tuareg rebels in the region have resumed and the UN camp is one of the major prizes The army has faced a series of attacks in recent weeks in northern Mali. These have coincided with the ongoing withdrawal of the UN stabilisation force MINUSMA. The UN force is handing over its camps to Malian authorities. Three more are due to follow this month. However, the separatists are claiming that these camps should be returned to their control. The UN mission will vacate the Kidal camp along with two other sites (Ansongo and Mopti) in November, said Madou Diallo, the foreign ministry's director for international organisations in an online video on Monday. Post this, only three camps should remain (Gao, Timbuktu and the capital Bamako). Handing over these camps would mark the "liquidation" of UN forces in Mali. AFP quoted an official who said that the Kidal camp was to be handed over between November 15 and 30. Last week, a convoy of dozens of army vehicles left the city of Gao which is 300 kilometres southwest of Kidal. This set of speculation about an offensive against rebel bases in the Kidal region. The convoy came under attack on Saturday and the army said that the soldiers had taken control of Anefis. It is a town 110 kms south of Kidal. Almou Ag Mohamed, a spokesperson for the Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP), a coalition of armed rebel factions, confirmed to AFP that the army was in Anefis. After a decade of conflict in the country, an offensive in the rebel bases in Kidal could mark a turning point. After initially launching a rebellion in 2012, the predominantly Tuareg armed groups signed a peace agreement with the state in 2015, but in August they resumed hostilities.  Attacks against Malian army camps by both the separatist groups and jihadists have increased.  (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Mali: Military junta aims takeover of key UN camp in north

Insurgency is on the rise in the impoverished, West African nation of Mali, especially in its northern and central regions. On the 7th of September, attacks on an army base and a passenger boat on the Niger river in Northern Mali by suspected Jihadists killed 64 people. The assaults were claimed by a group affiliated to Al-Qaeda. The very next day, a suicide attack targeted a military base in northern Mali. And on the 12th of September, armed groups from northern Mali claimed to have captured the key town of Bourem, following fighting with the Malian army. Given the resumption of hostilities in the north, the Mali Junta has cancelled independence day celebrations planned for next week. Mohammed Saleh brings you this report.

Rebel groups claim capture of key town in Mali | World at War

Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso military leaders establish security alliance. The alliance of Sahel states (AES) aims to "establish an architecture of collective defence and mutual assistance" for the benefit of populations.

Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso sign Sahel security pact

Africa: Military leaders of three countries sign defence pact to counter Ecowas | Live Discussion

Sixty-four people were killed in two separate suspected jihadist attacks on an army base and a passenger boat on Thursday (September 7). Citing an official statement, the news agency AFP reported that the attacks targeted the Timbuktu boat on the Niger River and an army position at Bamba, in the northern Gao region with a provisional toll of 49 civilians and 15 soldiers killed.

Sixty-four people were killed in two separate suspected jihadist attacks on an army base and a passenger boat on Thursday (September 7). Citing an official statement, the news agency AFP reported that the attacks targeted the Timbuktu boat on the Niger River and an army position at Bamba, in the northern Gao region with a provisional toll of 49 civilians and 15 soldiers killed. It is not yet clear how many people were killed in each of these attacks. The AFP report said that the attacks were claimed by a group affiliated with Al-Qaeda. According to the army, the boat was attacked around 1100 GMT. In a separate statement, the boat's operator Comanav said the vessel was plying an established route between cities along the river and was targeted by at least three rockets. Army evacuating passengers from boat Images shared on social media showed a cloud of black smoke rising above the Niger River. A Comanav official, who did not wish to be identified, told AFP the boat was immobilised on the river and the army was evacuating passengers. Niger is a vital transport link in a region where road infrastructure is poor and railways absent. Tuesday's attacks come after the Support Group for Islam and Muslims (GSIM), which is allied with Al-Qaeda, announced in August that it was blockading Timbuktu, the historic crossroads city of northern Mali. Mali junta carries out air strikes against terrorist groups On Wednesday, the junta said it carried out air strikes against terrorist groups that were planning attacks in the north of the country. Sharing a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the army said, "Preventive FAMa (Malian Armed Forces) air strikes followed by an airborne operation targeted armed terrorist groups, including a wanted terrorist leader." The terrorist groups had exerted "pressure on peaceful populations 35 kilometres (22 miles) north of Timbuktu," the army added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mali: 64 killed in suspected jihadist attacks on army base, passenger boat

Russia on Wednesday (August 30) vetoed the United Nations Security Council resolution, which was drafted by France and UAE, on the sanctions against Mali.

Thirteen out of the UN Security Council's 15 members were in favour of the proposal that would have extended the UN sanctions and independent monitoring for another year.

However, Russia exercised its veto power to block the proposal which was led by Mali's former colonial power France and the United Arab Emirates, whereas China abstained from casting a vote.

Russia's ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, underlined that the sanctions were first put in place in the year 2017 in order to back a peace agreement in the long-troubled Sahel country.

"It is fundamentally important that UN Security Council sanctions deal purely with that issue and not be used as a means of foreign influence on Mali, and that is something that the panel of experts of the Security Council has been involved in," he said.

Western powers condemned Russia for redressing after the panel spoke precariously about actions by Malian forces and their "foreign security partners", a clear reference to Wagner.

Earlier this month, a report submitted to the Security Council said that the violence against women "allegedly committed by the Malian Armed Forces and their foreign and local allies is systematic and organised."

Sanctions without experts to monitor them would make the entire effort "ineffective," US envoy Robert Wood said.

"Russia seeks to eliminate the panel of experts' mandate to stifle publication of uncomfortable truths about Wagner's actions in Mali which require attention," Wood said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-asks-india-to-not-over-interpret-latest-distorted-map-release-630704">China asks India to not 'over-interpret' latest 'distorted' map release</a>

"Too many people continue to suffer from the ongoing violence and due to Russia's actions, this Council has failed to renew some of the most important international initiatives for addressing this crisis," he added.

<h2>UK regrets “reckless use of veto” by Russia</h2>

The United Kingdom deeply regretted the "reckless use" of the veto against the renewal of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions against Mali.&nbsp;

UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, James Kariuki, at the UNSC meeting on Mali held on Wednesday, said, “The United Kingdom cannot support Russia’s proposal to dissolve the Panel of Experts on Mali, nor its attempt to predetermine the termination of sanctions measures.”

He said that despite difficult compromises, the UK opted to vote in favour of the resolution because of its substantial support for the renewal of the Mali sanctions regime and Panel of Experts mandate. Kariuki termed these as “important tools in support of peace and stability in Mali”.

“For this reason, the UK deeply regrets Russia’s reckless use of the veto. This will reduce the Council’s oversight and engagement on Mali’s peace process at a critical juncture,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia on Wednesday (August 30) vetoed the United Nations Security Council resolution, which was drafted by France and UAE, on the sanctions against Mali. Thirteen out of the UN Security Council's 15 members were in favour of the proposal that would have extended the UN sanctions and independent monitoring for another year.

Russia on Wednesday (August 30) vetoed the United Nations Security Council resolution, which was drafted by France and UAE, on the sanctions against Mali. Thirteen out of the UN Security Council's 15 members were in favour of the proposal that would have extended the UN sanctions and independent monitoring for another year. However, Russia exercised its veto power to block the proposal which was led by Mali's former colonial power France and the United Arab Emirates, whereas China abstained from casting a vote. Russia's ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, underlined that the sanctions were first put in place in the year 2017 in order to back a peace agreement in the long-troubled Sahel country. "It is fundamentally important that UN Security Council sanctions deal purely with that issue and not be used as a means of foreign influence on Mali, and that is something that the panel of experts of the Security Council has been involved in," he said. Western powers condemned Russia for redressing after the panel spoke precariously about actions by Malian forces and their "foreign security partners", a clear reference to Wagner. Earlier this month, a report submitted to the Security Council said that the violence against women "allegedly committed by the Malian Armed Forces and their foreign and local allies is systematic and organised." Sanctions without experts to monitor them would make the entire effort "ineffective," US envoy Robert Wood said. "Russia seeks to eliminate the panel of experts' mandate to stifle publication of uncomfortable truths about Wagner's actions in Mali which require attention," Wood said. Also read: China asks India to not 'over-interpret' latest 'distorted' map release "Too many people continue to suffer from the ongoing violence and due to Russia's actions, this Council has failed to renew some of the most important international initiatives for addressing this crisis," he added. UK regrets “reckless use of veto” by Russia The United Kingdom deeply regretted the "reckless use" of the veto against the renewal of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions against Mali. UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, James Kariuki, at the UNSC meeting on Mali held on Wednesday, said, “The United Kingdom cannot support Russia’s proposal to dissolve the Panel of Experts on Mali, nor its attempt to predetermine the termination of sanctions measures.” He said that despite difficult compromises, the UK opted to vote in favour of the resolution because of its substantial support for the renewal of the Mali sanctions regime and Panel of Experts mandate. Kariuki termed these as “important tools in support of peace and stability in Mali”. “For this reason, the UK deeply regrets Russia’s reckless use of the veto. This will reduce the Council’s oversight and engagement on Mali’s peace process at a critical juncture,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia vetoes UNSC resolution on sanctions against Mali, China abstains

The ancient city of Timbuktu in Mali has reportedly been under a blockade by Islamist militants for several days.

As per AFP, local officials reported on Monday that the jihadists "have blocked all the roads," effectively sealing off all roads in and out of the northern city, situated on the fringes of the Sahara desert.&nbsp;

<h2>What's happening in Timbuktu?</h2>

Speaking to the news agency on the condition of anonymity, a local lawmaker revealed that "Nothing is getting through between Timbuktu and the south," and that the jihadists had blocked all connections along the nearby Niger River.

"Everything's expensive in Timbuktu because products are no longer getting into the city. The jihadists have blocked the roads. It's really difficult," a city hall official told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-burkina-faso-police-officers-40-terrorists-die-in-clashes-627357" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/five-burkina-faso-police-officers-40-terrorists-die-in-clashes-627357&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjnkYqmzu6AAxV4plYBHU1iCTkQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2U85XkBb8zbFVEq3BE-sFp" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-burkina-faso-police-officers-40-terrorists-die-in-clashes-627357" target="_blank">Five Burkina Faso police officers, 40 'terrorists' die in clashes</a>

<h2>Prices skyrocket</h2>

The situation has led to severe disruptions in the Timbuktu's supply lines and has also resulted in significant price increases.&nbsp;

As per a petrol station owner, the price of petrol surged from "845 CFA francs (around $1.40) to 1,250 CFA francs in a week".

<h2>A war</h2>

As per AFP, earlier this month, messages on social media attributed to a commander from&nbsp;Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM)&nbsp;— which has linkages to&nbsp;Al Qaeda —&nbsp;announced that it had "declared war" on the Timbuktu region.&nbsp;

These messages reportedly warned trucks from Algeria, Mauritania, and other regional locations from entering Timbuktu and threatened to target any vehicles that fail to heed the 'warning'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-peacekeeping-mission-in-mali-quits-base-early-over-insecurity-625213">UN peacekeeping mission in Mali quits base early over insecurity</a>

These&nbsp;series of threats come as the United Nations peacekeeping mission MINUSMA for Mali expedited withdrawal from a base in the country's northern regions. This was done&nbsp;citing heightened security risks.&nbsp;

Mali, which has witnessed three coups in the past decade, is currently under the rule of a military junta that has been pressing for the departure of the MINUSMA UN mission which commenced in 2013 following the 2012 separatist and jihadist rebellions in the northern part of the nation.&nbsp;

MINUSMA has already handed over control of two bases near Timbuktu to Malian authorities. In spite of the UN&nbsp;compliance&nbsp;with the Junta's demand, the region remains plagued by unrest, reports AFP.

Currently, the UN mission is maintaining a camp within Timbuktu. However, its troops are slated to withdraw from the city by the end of this year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The ancient city of Timbuktu in Mali has reportedly been under a blockade by Islamist militants for several days. As per AFP, local officials reported on Monday that the jihadists "have blocked all the roads," effectively sealing off all roads in and out of the northern city, situated on the fringes of the Sahara desert.

The ancient city of Timbuktu in Mali has reportedly been under a blockade by Islamist militants for several days. As per AFP, local officials reported on Monday that the jihadists "have blocked all the roads," effectively sealing off all roads in and out of the northern city, situated on the fringes of the Sahara desert. What's happening in Timbuktu? Speaking to the news agency on the condition of anonymity, a local lawmaker revealed that "Nothing is getting through between Timbuktu and the south," and that the jihadists had blocked all connections along the nearby Niger River. "Everything's expensive in Timbuktu because products are no longer getting into the city. The jihadists have blocked the roads. It's really difficult," a city hall official told AFP. Also read | Five Burkina Faso police officers, 40 'terrorists' die in clashes Prices skyrocket The situation has led to severe disruptions in the Timbuktu's supply lines and has also resulted in significant price increases. As per a petrol station owner, the price of petrol surged from "845 CFA francs (around $1.40) to 1,250 CFA francs in a week". A war As per AFP, earlier this month, messages on social media attributed to a commander from Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM) — which has linkages to Al Qaeda — announced that it had "declared war" on the Timbuktu region. These messages reportedly warned trucks from Algeria, Mauritania, and other regional locations from entering Timbuktu and threatened to target any vehicles that fail to heed the 'warning'. Also read | UN peacekeeping mission in Mali quits base early over insecurity These series of threats come as the United Nations peacekeeping mission MINUSMA for Mali expedited withdrawal from a base in the country's northern regions. This was done citing heightened security risks. Mali, which has witnessed three coups in the past decade, is currently under the rule of a military junta that has been pressing for the departure of the MINUSMA UN mission which commenced in 2013 following the 2012 separatist and jihadist rebellions in the northern part of the nation. MINUSMA has already handed over control of two bases near Timbuktu to Malian authorities. In spite of the UN compliance with the Junta's demand, the region remains plagued by unrest, reports AFP. Currently, the UN mission is maintaining a camp within Timbuktu. However, its troops are slated to withdraw from the city by the end of this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Timbuktu under siege: Jihadist fighters block roads, cut off supplies

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