Putin's African Grip Weakens as Russian Forces Forced to Withdraw from Mali Stronghold

Russian forces' Africa Corps suffer major blow as they are driven from a stronghold in Mali after deadly battles with jihadist and tribal militia groups led by al Qaeda-linked rebels and mostly-Muslim Tuareg separatists. The defeat marks a significant setback for President Vladimir Putin's efforts to expand Russia's presence in West Africa. The situation is still unfolding, but reports indicate that Russian forces have retreated from the region. The exact extent of the damage is not yet known.