The Kremlin confirms the continued presence of Russian forces in Mali to fight terrorism

The Kremlin announced that Russian forces will remain in Mali to help the military-led government fight armed groups, at a time when Al-Qaeda in West Africa announced its control over more territory.

In a statement after a journalist asked him about Russia's response to a statement reportedly issued by rebels who said they wanted Russia to leave Mali because they believe the ruling military council will not last long without Russian support, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov explained that "Russia's presence there is actually due to a need identified by the current government. Russia will continue to combat extremism, terrorism, and other negative phenomena, (including in countries like) Mali, and will continue to provide assistance to the current government."

Mali's military rulers are trying to regain control after coordinated attacks launched by Al-Qaeda-linked rebels and a coalition mostly composed of Tuareg separatists at the beginning of the week led to the killing of the defense minister and forced Russian contractors to withdraw from a strategic city.

The attacks raised the possibility that armed groups, which have intensified their attacks on neighboring countries, could achieve significant territorial gains. Analysts suggest that these groups will eventually turn their attention to more distant regions.