Mali demands UN peacekeeping mission withdrawal.

Mali's foreign minister has called for the immediate withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping force, Minusma, accusing it of fueling intercommunal tensions. The force has failed to stop the spread of jihadist violence in the country. Russian Wagner mercenaries are now assisting Mali's military rulers, and Western officials have accused Wagner of human rights abuses. The Malian government has also objected to France's long-standing involvement in the country. The UN chief has recommended that the mission be reconfigured to focus on a few limited priorities.