Mali leader says situation under control in first speech since attacks

STORY: In his first public appearance since insurgents launched coordinated attacks on Mali over the weekend,

the leader of the military government, Assimi Goita vowed to "neutralize" those responsible.

West Africa's al Qaeda affiliate and a Tuareg-dominated separatist group hit Mali's main army base and the area near Bamako's airport in Saturday's attacks.

At the same time, pushing Russian troops supporting government forces out of the strategic town of Kidal in the north.

Mali's defense minister was killed in Saturday's attacks.

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Goita had not been seen until his office on Tuesday afternoon published pictures of him meeting the Russian ambassador, Igor Gromyko. 

"As I speak, security measures have been stepped up, the situation is under control, and search-and-clear operations, intelligence gathering, and security operations are continuing."

The attacks have triggered a scramble for territory across Mali's vast desert north.

It's raised the prospect of significant gains by armed groups that have shown an increasing willingness to strike neighboring countries.

Analysts say they could eventually set their sights further afield.

In a video message, a spokesperson for the al Qaeda affiliate called Saturday's attacks revenge for drone strikes and other attacks perpetrated by Malian forces.

The spokesperson also threatened to implement a siege of Bamako, a city of 4 million people.

Russia said on Tuesday jihadi and separatist forces were regrouping after Moscow helped thwart what it described as a coup attempt on Saturday.

The Russian Defense Ministry said it prevented insurgents from seizing key facilities including the presidential palace.

It added it stood ready to repel further attacks.

Moscow's response is being closely watched at a time when its forces are tied down fighting in Ukraine and it is trying to deepen its role as a security guarantor to friendly resource-rich governments in Africa.

Mali turned to Russia for support after expelling French and U.N. troops following coups in 2020 and 2021.