Intense fighting erupted between Malian government forces, including Russian Wagner mercenaries, and Tuareg rebels in the northern region of Mali near the Algerian border.
The two-day clash, which occurred on Thursday and Friday, resulted in casualties on both sides.
The Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA), a Tuareg rebel group, claimed a significant victory, stating they inflicted heavy losses on the government forces, including the capture of armored vehicles and other military equipment.
They also asserted responsibility for downing a Malian helicopter in Kidal.
The Malian military acknowledged the loss of two soldiers and injuries to ten others. They attributed the helicopter crash in Kidal to an accident during a routine mission.
Graphic videos circulating on social media purportedly show the aftermath of the battle, with multiple casualties including what appear to be foreign mercenaries. Independent verification of these images has not been possible.
The conflict in Mali has been ongoing for years, with Tuareg rebels seeking greater autonomy for the region.
The involvement of Russian mercenaries has further complicated the situation, raising concerns about the potential for increased violence and human rights abuses.
