Key Highlights
- Russian-made cluster munitions found in northern Mali despite country’s adherence to the Convention on Cluster Munitions.
- Malian Armed Forces announced airstrikes in the area where submunitions were discovered.
- Use of cluster munitions by Russia’s paramilitary group in Mali raises concerns over international law compliance.
The Grim Discovery: Cluster Munitions in Mali
You might think this is new, but the discovery of Russian-made cluster munition bomblets in northern Mali is anything but. Bellingcat and Jeune Afrique have geolocated footage showing unexploded ShOAB-0.5 submunitions near a village called Tadjmart. The findings are shocking considering Mali’s adherence to the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM).
Airstrikes Announced, Bomblets Unearthed
On May 17, the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) announced airstrikes in northern Mali targeting armed groups. This came as no surprise given the ongoing conflict between Tuareg separatists and militants from al-Qaeda affiliated JNIM. The FAMa claimed to have identified these targets, but evidence of cluster munitions use is mounting.
Russian Involvement: Africa Corps and Beyond
Russia’s paramilitary Africa Corps group, which replaced the Wagner mercenary group in Mali, has been providing support to Malian forces. Russia is not a signatory to the CCM, making its actions even more concerning. The use of cluster munitions by any party within a conflict zone is a serious breach of international law.
Geolocated Evidence and Geopolitical Implications
Bellingcat geolocated two videos showing unexploded ShOAB-0.5 submunitions in Tadjmart, approximately 55 kilometers south of Aguelhok. This is the same location where FAMa airstrikes were reported. The damage from these cluster munitions can be devastating; they scatter bomblets over a wide area, causing significant civilian harm long after deployment.
Expert Analysis: Compliance and Consequences
Brian Finucane of the International Crisis Group stated that as a party to the CCM, Mali is obligated to not use such weapons. This means the FAMa’s actions are in direct violation of their commitments under the treaty. The consequences could be severe for both Mali and Russia.
Conclusion
A Call for Accountability
The discovery of Russian cluster munitions in northern Mali highlights the complex web of international relations and the disregard for human rights that can occur during conflicts. While Mali is a signatory to the CCM, Russia’s lack of participation makes its actions even more troubling. The international community must hold all parties accountable for their actions on the ground.
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