Russian Mi-8 spotted amid Iran crisis, Mali’s defence minister killed during coordinated attacks?

Mali plunged into chaos after coordinated attacks struck multiple cities, shaking the military junta and exposing cracks in Russia’s growing influence in the region. A Russian-linked Mi-8 helicopter reportedly went down near Gao, while separatist and jihadist groups intensified pressure across key towns. The situation worsened with reports of a deadly strike on a senior minister’s residence and a suicide car bombing in Kati, a heavily guarded stronghold. As curfews are imposed and rebels claim territorial gains, questions are mounting over whether Mali’s leadership can retain control amid escalating violence.