UN Votes to End Peacekeeping Mission in Mali Amid Junta Pressure

The UN Security Council has unanimously voted to end its peacekeeping mission in Mali, following a demand from the country's military junta. The junta, which has brought in mercenaries from Russia's Wagner Group to combat an Islamic insurgency, has strained relations with the international community. The French-drafted resolution terminates the mandate of the peacekeeping mission, known as MINUSMA, and orders the withdrawal of over 15,000 personnel by the end of the year. The decision has raised concerns about increasing instability and humanitarian needs in the region, as well as the partnership with the Wagner Group. The UN mission played a critical role in mediating between the Malian government and separatist Tuareg rebels, and its withdrawal may lead to a resumption of hostilities.