Malian Defense Minister Killed Amid Widespread Attacks

Mali's Defense Minister, General Sadio Camara, has reportedly been killed during a series of coordinated assaults by jihadi and rebel forces across the country. These attacks led to the seizure of several towns and military bases, indicating a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Malian troops and Russian mercenaries are reported to have withdrawn from the northern city of Kidal following the incidents.