The Malian army, with the support of its Russian partners, has engaged in a new large-scale air and ground operation in the Kidal region. This operation aims to reconquer the city of Kidal, which was ceded to terrorist groups on April 25, 2025, following a series of attacks. The operation is a readaptation of the "Dougoukoloko" operation, which has been relaunched to track down and neutralize terrorist groups operating in the region.

The objective of the operation, according to the General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces, is to track down terrorist groups, destroy their sanctuaries and supply networks, and restore security in the area. The operation is being carried out by the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) and their Russian partners, with the aim of neutralizing terrorist groups and destroying their sanctuaries and supply networks.

The new phase of operations comes at a time when the Malian authorities are determined to consolidate their control over the entire national territory. The Kidal region has long been considered a hotspot of tensions and terrorist activities, making it a strategic sector. The Malian army and its partners are determined to restore security for the populations and ensure the free movement of people and goods in the region.

The General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces has called on the populations of the region to remain calm and vigilant, and to continue collaborating with the defense and security forces. The populations are also invited to report any suspicious movements or behavior. The FAMa and their Russian partners have affirmed their determination to eradicate terrorism throughout the national territory.

The operation is a new step in the military efforts to consolidate the presence of the State in the Kidal region and to secure this part of northern Mali. The Malian army had previously ceded control of Kidal to terrorist groups, who have been using the city as a sanctuary. The reconquest of Kidal is seen as a key objective for the Malian authorities.

The evolution of the situation will be the subject of official communications, and the General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces has recalled that only official communiqués are authoritative. The operation has been widely welcomed by the Malian population, who are eager to see the end of terrorist activities in the region.

The launch of this new operation is a significant development in the fight against terrorism in Mali. The Malian army, with the support of its Russian partners, is determined to restore security and stability in the Kidal region. The operation is expected to have a significant impact on the terrorist groups operating in the region.

Key points

  • The Malian army has launched a new operation to reconquer the city of Kidal, which was ceded to terrorist groups in April 2025.
  • The operation aims to track down and neutralize terrorist groups operating in the region, and to restore security and stability in the Kidal region.
  • The Malian army is working with its Russian partners to carry out the operation, which is a key part of the government's efforts to consolidate control over the national territory.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.