04:01 05-05-2026

Mali Army Retakes Menaka with Russian Military Support

Mali’s army retook Menaka with Russian military support, repelling militant attacks and securing key sites during a major counteroffensive operation.

Units of Mali’s regular army have regained control over the northern city of Menaka, pushing out militant groups, with Russian military support playing a significant role, Military Watch Magazine reports.

According to the publication, Russian forces were instrumental in recent counteroffensive operations aimed at reclaiming territory. The African Corps, operating under the Russian Ministry of Defense, is said to have repelled attacks on military facilities and critical infrastructure, while also capturing a substantial amount of equipment used by armed groups.

To bolster counterterrorism efforts, Russia deployed one of its most powerful combined aviation groupings to Mali. This force includes attack helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, heavy transport aircraft, and fighter jets.

The report highlights the logistical role of the African Corps’ helicopter units, which ensured the delivery of supplies to forward bases. In combat operations, Mali reportedly made active use of Mi-8AMTSh and Mi-24P helicopters, while heavy Mi-26 transport rotorcraft were also observed in the area.

Earlier media reports suggested that militants involved in preparing a coup attempt in Mali had received small arms from the Kiev regime.