Mali

West Africa's Mali fell victim to terrorist attack as Malian Army's Tessit unit was ambushed by terrorist groups, informed Mali government on August 10. The attack has resulted in the death of at least 42 Malian soldiers, and left 22 injured. The attack was allegedly carried out by Islamic State in Greater Sahara (ISGS), amid a decade-long insurgency in the nation. Meanwhile, 37 militants were killed during the attack.

The President of France, Emmanuel Macron has warned Mali of withdrawing its 5,100 troopers from the Sahel region, if the Islamist radicalization increases due to political instability. France has been providing military support to the leaders of its former colonies in Africa for decades. Notably, President Macron recently said that he has told the leaders that France will not support countries without democratic legitimacy and transition.

The military in Mali on May 24 detained the President, PM and Defence Minister of the interim government. Reportedly, the action came after government removed to military leaders in reshuffling. While the UN, African Union and ECOWAS urged for the immediate and unconditional release of the leaders, a military official from Kati said 'What they (the detained leaders) have done is not good' and the decision will be made soon.