The Kremlin-backed Africa Corps has confirmed it will maintain operations in Mali following the withdrawal of Wagner Group forces, signaling Russia’s continued military influence in the Sahel region.

From Wagner to Africa Corps

Wagner mercenaries, active in Mali since the military junta came to power, officially ended their mission this week. On social media, Wagner declared it had handed over regional bases to Mali’s military and repatriated its personnel. The vacuum is now being filled by the Africa Corps—composed largely of ex-Wagner fighters—under the control of Russia’s Ministry of Defense.

According to Russian Telegram channels, the Africa Corps will assume Wagner’s operational roles.

Kremlin Denies Strategic Loss

The Africa Corps stated on Telegram, “Russia is not losing ground. On the contrary, it is strengthening its support for Bamako.” Analysts confirm that while Russia’s role in direct combat may diminish, its influence via logistics and training will remain robust.

Ulf Laessing of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation said, “The transition from Wagner to Africa Corps indicates Moscow’s intent to sustain its military footprint while shifting to more indirect involvement.”

Rising Violence and Jihadist Threats

Mali has seen a recent surge in violence, with armed groups such as Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) claiming deadly attacks, including one near Bamako that killed Russian and Malian troops.

Despite Wagner’s exit, the security situation remains volatile and Russian backing of the junta appears set to continue, albeit under a different guise.