An investigation by an international human rights organization has uncovered evidence of what appears to be unlawful aerial attacks in central Mali that resulted in the deaths of eight civilians, including three children. The alleged strikes, carried out on June 15 by a Russian-operated aircraft, targeted the village of Kyrnia in the Mopti region.
According to detailed findings, a Russian-made Sukhoi Su-24 jet bombed civilian structures, specifically the village leader’s residence and a livestock market. No armed Islamist fighters were reported among the casualties. The attack left three additional civilians injured.
Violations of International Law Alleged
A senior Sahel researcher at the organization condemned the operation, stating that the strikes “demonstrated a blatant disregard for the laws of war.” The researcher further emphasized that Mali’s transitional authorities share responsibility for the actions of their allied forces, criticizing their alleged “blank check” approach to Russian military involvement in the country.
Evidence Supports Civilian Targeting Claims
The investigation relied on multiple sources, including 19 telephone interviews conducted between June 24 and July 14 with witnesses, local civil society members, Malian soldiers, and journalists. Additional evidence included satellite imagery of the strike sites, a video from Africa Corps, and photographs released by an Islamist armed group.
Legal Framework and Accountability Demands
The human rights group reminded all parties involved that international humanitarian law, applicable to the armed conflict in Mali, prohibits attacks that fail to distinguish between combatants and civilians or cause disproportionate harm to civilian populations. The organization called on Mali’s ruling junta to initiate an independent investigation into potential war crimes, including the Kyrnia airstrikes.
Since General Assimi Goïta assumed power, Mali has deepened its security partnership with Russia, particularly in combating armed extremist groups, following the withdrawal of French and UN peacekeeping forces.
