Kremlin says Russia present in Mali based on needs expressed by transitional government

The Kremlin said on Thursday that Russia is present in Mali in response to the needs expressed by the Sahel country’s transitional government and will continue to assist it in fighting “extremism, terrorism, and other negative manifestations.”

“Russia's presence there is, in fact, a necessity declared by the current government,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a press briefing.

Peskov’s remarks came in response to a question concerning reported statements from the Azawad Liberation Front, a Tuareg-led rebel alliance, urging Russian forces to leave Mali.

“Russia will continue, including in Mali, the fight against extremism, terrorism, and other negative manifestations, and will continue to provide assistance to the current government,” Peskov added.

Mali saw attacks on army bases over the weekend that also killed Defense Minister Sadio Camara.