Mali army drone strikes kill civilians
An investigation found at least a quarter of drone strikes by the Malian army and its Russian partners caused civilian casualties.
An investigation into drone attacks in Mali revealed that at least one quarter of the strikes conducted by the Malian army and its Russian partners, Africa Corps, resulted in civilian casualties. The investigation, which spanned six months from September 2023 to September 2026, meticulously verified 60 drone strikes.
Journalist Matteo Maillard stated that drones have profoundly transformed the war in Mali, with civilian targets frequently hit. This high number of collateral victims may stem from a lack of precise intelligence, a flawed target identification process, or less restrictive rules of engagement. It is possible Malian crews pilot drones with Turkish assistance, striking targets identified or approved by Russian command structures.
The use of drones has also become a media weapon for the Malian army, showcasing state power and modern technology. However, the human cost includes polluted fields, killed livestock, and entire villages displaced due to fear of nighttime attacks.
Why it mattersCivilians in Mali are being killed and displaced by drone strikes.