In Mali, the withdrawal of Minusma from its camps located in the Kidal region triggered violent clashes on the ground, particularly around the Tessalit base. Exchanges of fire between the Malian army and the Permanent Strategic Framework (CSP) rebels have been reported in recent days, highlighting growing tensions in the region. But this confrontation is not only limited to battles on the ground, it is also taking place in the diplomatic corridors of both Malian and UN.
Since last Thursday, the Malian army has transported its reinforcements, including Malian soldiers and Wagner auxiliaries, by plane to Tessalit. Despite the fire from the CSP rebels present around the base, these flights were carried out thanks to the presence of Minusma which ensures the security of the runway and which had not been informed of these arrivals.
The withdrawal of Minusma from the Tessalit and Aguelhoc bases was officially launched, in a climate of high tension. Although details on the modalities and precise deadlines of the withdrawal are not disclosed for security reasons, it is reported that the priority is to evacuate the soldiers, then the sensitive equipment, mainly by air.
At the same time, Minusma also plans to accelerate the departure of its base in Kidal, which is the stronghold of rebel groups. Initially scheduled for mid-November, this withdrawal could be accelerated for security reasons.
The United Nations has intensified its contacts with the Malian transitional authorities to inform them of their concerns and emphasize their responsibility for the security of the peacekeepers during this disengagement. For his part, the Malian Minister of Foreign Affairs reminded Minusma of its obligation to scrupulously respect the withdrawal plan and the deadlines set.
However, tensions remain between the Malian authorities and Minusma. Indeed, logistical convoys destined for the UN mission have been blocked in Gao since the end of September due to the security situation. The Malian minister justifies this blockage by declaring that authorizations will be issued depending on the improvement of the situation.
These convoys mainly transport UN equipment, part of which belongs to troop-contributing countries, such as Chad. If this equipment cannot be repatriated within the planned time frame, the Malian army could hope to recover some of it. On the other hand, the weapons should be destroyed according to UN rules, which makes the future of this material a crucial issue.
In this tense context, the blue helmets present in Tessalit, Aguelhoc and Kidal have become a major issue. While the Malian army wishes to regain control of these bases in the name of national sovereignty, the CSP rebels oppose this idea, referring to the provisions of the 2015 peace agreement. Thus, a battle is currently taking place between the two parties for possession of these bases, with sporadic clashes and exchanges of fire. The presence of Minusma is used as a shield by the rebels, who also believe that the delays in the withdrawal of the blue helmets and the arrival of Wagner’s mercenaries in Tessalit testify to complicity on the part of the UN mission.
Despite their divergent objectives, the United Nations, the Malian transitional authorities and the CSP rebels all display a common desire that the departure of Minusma from the Kidal region takes place quickly. This complex situation highlights the ongoing challenges facing stability in Mali and highlights the importance of cooperation between all parties involved to achieve a peaceful resolution.