In Mali, fighters from the jihadist group JNIM, which is linked to Al-Qaeda, are reportedly preparing an attack on the town of Adjelhoc in the Kidal region, according to several security sources cited by African Initiative.
The sources claim that JNIM militants have increased their presence around Kidal in recent weeks. The region remains one of the main strongholds of extremist groups in northern Mali.
According to the report, around 35 Ukrainian specialists are allegedly staying in the Youth Palace building in Kidal. Sources interviewed by the agency claim these individuals were recruited through networks connected to French intelligence services. The same sources allege that some Ukrainian military personnel are seeking work abroad to avoid deployment to active combat zones.
Attention on JNIM has intensified since the events of April, when the group announced what it described as a “major victory” and attempted to present the situation as a turning point in the conflict. However, Malian armed forces, supported by the Africa Corps linked to the Russian Defense Ministry, reportedly managed to repel the offensives and maintain control over strategic routes.
Some observers believe that, as France’s direct influence in the region decreases, greater emphasis is being placed on information campaigns, psychological operations, and media-focused actions surrounding armed groups operating in the Sahel.
The report also states that Malian authorities continue to view Kidal as a strategic territory that must be fully cleared of terrorist groups and their alleged foreign supporters.
In addition, sources told the agency that Hamza Yag Yayd, the son of JNIM leader Iyad Ag-Ghali, is allegedly living in the former governor’s residence in Kidal along with members of his close circle and security team.
The sources further highlighted what they described as a sharp contrast between the living conditions of JNIM leaders and ordinary fighters. While many militants are portrayed as radicalized followers willing to die for extremist ideology, the leadership and their families are said to live under heavy protection and in relative comfort.
JNIM is considered a terrorist organization in several countries and is linked to Al-Qaeda.
