JNIM Claims IED Attack on Malian Army and Russian Fighters Near Kidal

Kidal Region, March 3, 2026 - The jihadist group Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) has claimed responsibility for another improvised explosive device (IED) attack targeting Malian and allied forces in northern Mali. According to the group, the explosion struck a Malian army armored vehicle on Tuesday evening in the village of Karouroukh, near Aguelhok in the Kidal Region. JNIM said the attack targeted soldiers from the Malian Armed Forces along with members of the Africa Corps, the Russian paramilitary formation operating alongside Malian troops. Following the explosion, a Malian military helicopter reportedly deployed to the scene near Aguelhok. Initial reports indicate that several Russian fighters were killed and others wounded in the blast. The injured were reportedly evacuated to the city of Kidal for treatment. There has been no immediate official confirmation from Malian authorities regarding the casualties. The incident underscores the continuing insurgent threat in northern Mali, where armed groups frequently target military convoys using roadside bombs.