Wagner Group

With its mineral wealth and jihadist dilemma, Mali is entertaining both the Americans and the Russians, to see what each can offer, and what they want in return

Weak state control has led to a breakdown in law and order, resulting in thefts of precious metals and minerals, while the rising value of gold further incentivises such pillaging

A five-day visit to Moscow ended with agreements to cooperate in a range of areas. Mali wants nuclear power and Russian military support, whereas the Kremlin has its eyes on a precious metal.

The incident is a clear signal that it's no longer business-as-usual in the Sahel. New alliances and shifting dynamics are reshaping the region.

A recent jihadist attack on Mali's capital and a growing threat from northern rebels reportedly getting help from Ukraine begs the question: is the Sahel a new Russia-West battleground?

The two countries' relationship goes back decades and they often see eye-to-eye, but on the issue of Russia's mercenary activities in Algeria's southerly and easterly neighbours, they are at odds.

In the Kremlin's likely view, the cost of Prigozhin's demise is negligible when compared to the goal of sending a clear message to those who think they can come at the Tsar and live to tell the tale

Regardless of floating theories, the death of Wagner's rebellious boss will be widely perceived as an act of retribution and reprisal, which doesn't bother the Kremlin in the least.

The Wagner mutiny might elicit caution over empowering mercenaries too much, but it is unlikely to stop countries from employing them as the benefits seem to outweigh the risks

Al Majalla takes a look at various theories behind Prigozhin's actions as well as the domestic and foreign repercussions they will likely have