Mali accuses Russian mercenaries of betrayal

Malian officials have accused Russian mercenary forces deployed to the country of betrayal. The officials claim the Russians made deals with rebel forces who were withdrawing from key cities and towns, despite having promised security guarantees in exchange for mining rights. This accusation points to a significant breakdown in the partnership between Mali's junta and the Russian Africa Corps, the successor to the Wagner Group. The alleged deals undermine Mali's strategic position and security arrangements in the ongoing conflict with Tuareg and jihadist rebels.