Malian Separatist Group Claims Gains, Alleges Expansion of Operations Across Key Cities
By: Zagazola Makama
The Front de libération de l’Azawad (FLN) has announced what it described as new battlefield gains in northern Mali, including the alleged capture of Kidal, while also claiming expanded operations toward Gao and other strategic locations.
In a series of statements released on social media, the group’s spokesperson, Mohamed Ould Ramdane, said FLN forces were advancing in the north and consolidating control over several localities.
He claimed that Kidal had fallen under the control of FLN fighters and that operations were ongoing in the direction of the city. He also alleged that an enemy helicopter had been shot down, though no details were provided on the aircraft type, location, or circumstances.
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Ramdane further stated that several areas in Gao were now under FLN control, as fighting continued in multiple fronts across northern Mali.
In a notable political message, the spokesperson urged authorities in Burkina Faso and Niger both regional allies of Mali under a Sahelian defence arrangement to “distance themselves from the unfolding events in Mali,” suggesting possible regional diplomatic pressure linked to the conflict.
He also claimed that the group remained open to cooperation with any actor willing to support its stated objective of “the complete liberation of Azawad,” adding that the movement was prepared to work with partners, including in efforts to “overthrow the regime in Bamako,” which he described as “criminal.”
In a further escalation of rhetoric, Ramdane alleged that FLN intelligence indicated allied armed groups had taken control of “strategic zones in Bamako,” including the airport, the Kati military base, and the central city of Sévaré.
These claims could not be independently verified at the time of filing this report.