"UN Peacekeeping Mission in Mali Concludes After 10 Years"

The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) has officially ended its 10-year deployment in the country, as ordered by Mali's military government. The withdrawal of MINUSMA troops has raised concerns about increased fighting between Malian forces and armed groups. The mission had maintained around 15,000 soldiers and police in Mali, with over 10,500 personnel already withdrawn. The exit comes amidst ongoing instability in the country, with thousands killed and hundreds of thousands displaced by violence. Mali's government has shifted alliances, favoring closer ties with Russia and the private army Wagner Group, drawing condemnation from Western countries.