Title: UN Faces Unprecedented Exit from Mali as Military Junta Takes Over Fight Against Insurgency
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The United Nations is currently undergoing an “unprecedented” six-month exit from Mali, in response to orders from the country’s military junta. These developments come amidst escalating violence and the presence of the Islamic insurgency in the region. The junta has enlisted the help of mercenaries from Russia’s Wagner Group to combat this growing threat.
The magnitude of the operation was highlighted by the U.N. special envoy for Mali, who outlined various aspects of the withdrawal plan. This includes sending all U.N. peacekeepers and police back home, relinquishing control of camps and bases to the Malian government, and terminating the role of civilian staff. While the government of Mali has been cooperative, it has affirmed its unwillingness to extend the deadline for the U.N.’s exit.
The logistical challenges of the withdrawal are immense, as the U.N. also needs to relocate equipment and vehicles belonging to both the U.N. and countries involved in the peacekeeping mission. Adverse terrain, a hostile operating environment, and the presence of armed terrorist groups have further complicated the process.
The troubled state of Mali can be traced back to a 2012 military coup, which led to the establishment of an Islamic State in the northern region. Extremist rebels later expanded their influence to central Mali in 2015, where they remain active to this day. In August 2020, a coup toppled Mali’s president, and in June 2021, a military colonel was sworn in as the new president.
MINUSMA, the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Mali, has become recognized as the most dangerous U.N. mission worldwide. The withdrawal of U.N. troops and the limiting of the international community’s ability to protect civilians may contribute to further insecurity within the country.
Unfortunately, the withdrawal process has not been without its share of challenges. Armed groups, including the Wagner mercenaries, have clashed with U.N. forces during the exit. Moreover, the Islamic State extremists have significantly expanded the territory under their control in Mali over the course of a year.
As the United Nations grapples with its departure from Mali, the absence of international peacekeeping forces may jeopardize ongoing efforts to protect innocent lives and stabilize the nation. The resolution of the country’s security crisis remains at the forefront of global concerns, ensuring that Mali can overcome the threats posed by insurgents and restore peace to its citizens.
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