Russia congratulates Mali for conquering rebel stronghold of Kidal

The Russian Foreign Ministry welcomed Thursday November 16 the Malian Army’s liberation of the town of Kidal from Touareg rebel groups who had occupied the region for 10 years.

Malian transitional authorities announced November 14 the seizure of the town from the rebels following fierce battle. The town is the site of a base that the UN Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) left at the end of October 2023.

The Russian Foreign ministry said in a statement the victory “is an important step toward restoring the State’s territorial integrity and returning a legitimate Government to the region.”

“This important victory will undoubtedly contribute to the establishment of lasting peace and stability in the country,” the Statement outlined.

The Office of Foreign Minister Sergeï Lavrov said Moscow is closely watching the development of events in the West African country. “Moscow is firmly determined to further develop multi-faceted Russian-Mali cooperation for the benefit of our peoples and in the interests of security on the African continent,” the statement read.

Russia has emerged as a strategical partner of Mali under the transitional authority at the expense of former colonial power France. Both countries have stepped out cooperation in many areas including defense and security.