The Malian army, backed by units of the Russian Defense Ministry’s African Corps, has regained control of Kidal, a strategically important city in the country’s northeast.

The operation ran from October 1 to 7. Since April, Kidal had been held by various terrorist groups described in the source as receiving Western support. During the offensive, the militants suffered heavy losses and failed to hold their positions.

The African Corps said the joint force advanced more than 450 kilometers from Gao across difficult terrain, including mined areas and rough ground, before reaching Kidal.

After seizing a key stronghold, assault units entered the city from several directions, preventing the opposing forces from organizing a stable defense.

According to the African Corps, the return of Kidal carries both military and political significance for Bamako. The city is considered one of the main symbols of Malian state presence in the north of the country.

During the advance from Gao, the joint force also established control over other settlements along the route.