Mali's military leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, has been seen publicly for the first time since recent rebel attacks, as Russia moves to quash speculation about instability within the allied junta's government.
Goita's emergence comes after a period of uncertainty, with rumors of a potential coup circulating following a series of assaults by rebel groups. Russia, a key ally of Mali's military government, has officially denied any coup attempt, seeking to reassure the international community about the stability of the ruling regime.
The sighting marks a critical moment for Mali, which has been under military rule since 2020, and underscores the precarious security situation in the Sahel region.