Wagner Group & Arab Azawad Liberation Front

Wagner Group: The Wagner Group, predecessor to Afrika Korps, had previously supported the Malian army in retaking Kidal, highlighting the historical involvement of Russian mercenaries.

Arab Azawad Liberation Front: Arab Azawad Liberation Front, a Tuareg-dominated rebel group, partnered with Jama at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin to carry out coordinated attacks, claiming control of Mali — Kidal and challenging Mali's military presence in the north.

Wagner Group: The Wagner Group, a Russian paramilitary group, is mentioned as likely allied foreign fighters accused by the UN of executing civilians in Mali, indicating their involvement in the conflict and potential human rights abuses.

Arab Azawad Liberation Front: The Arab Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), an ethnic Tuareg separatist movement, participated in coordinated offensives with the Jama at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) in late April, capturing towns and imposing a blockade on Bamako.