Mali's Junta Leader Meets Russian Ambassador Following Coordinated Attacks
Mali's junta leader, Assimi Goita, met with Russia's ambassador to Bamako, marking his first public appearance since a series of coordinated attacks by Islamic militants and separatists. These attacks, which Russia described as a coup attempt, targeted multiple cities, including Bamako's international airport and the garrison town of Kati. The attacks were carried out by al-Qaida-linked militants and the Azawad Liberation Front, resulting in significant unrest and the death of Mali's defense minister, Gen. Sadio Camara. Goita, in a televised address, vowed to continue military operations until security is restored. The U.S. Embassy in Mali issued a security alert due to potential terrorist movements in Bamako.