Malian troops reported in Kidal after separatists announce withdrawal

The Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) said on Tuesday, 6 October, that it was making a controlled, temporary withdrawal from Kidal in northern Mali. It said it was responding to air strikes and growing risks to the civilians still in the town. The FLA also said the move was intended to preserve its personnel and logistical capacity, and that its fighters had not engaged in direct combat during the withdrawal. [3] [4]

Mali’s military separately announced large-scale air and ground operations with Russian partners across the Kidal region. Its statement did not say troops had entered the town. AFP quoted an army officer who said a convoy from Anefis entered Kidal shortly before 1pm local time without meeting resistance. Reuters cited an unnamed security source who said pro-government fighters, including Russian fighters, entered on Tuesday afternoon. Local outlet Studio Tamani also reported an entry without resistance, citing security sources. [2] [4] [3] [5]