Russian Bomber Crash In Mali

A Russian-made SU-24 bomber plunged into Mali’s Niger River on June 13, shortly after taking part in a military operation known as Operation Dougoukoloko. Both pilots survived the crash, according to official statements.

The aircraft belonged to the Africa Corps, a newly established military unit under the Russian Defense Ministry. This group has taken over many of the functions once handled by the Wagner Group, bringing them under more direct state control.

Shortly after the incident, the Azawad Liberation Front claimed responsibility, saying its fighters had hit the plane with ground-to-air fire. They reported that the strike forced the bomber to retreat before it ultimately went down in the river.

The crash highlights growing instability in northern Mali, where armed groups continue to challenge the military-backed government and its international partners, including Russian forces.