US Weighs Military Operations in Mali Against JNIM (legrandcontinent.eu)

• US mulls military action against al-Qaeda affiliate JNIM in Mali.
• Eighth country targeted under Trump's current term.
• US aims to counter Russia and secure critical mineral access.
• Risk of empowering Islamic State in the Sahel.

"US officials report that the Trump administration is considering military operations in Mali against JNIM, the al-Qaeda affiliate in the Sahel. This would be the eighth country targeted by US strikes since Trump's return to power 18 months ago, following Iran, Yemen, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela, Iraq, and Nigeria. The US has increased intelligence sharing with Mali and seeks to counter Russian influence while securing access to critical minerals. Analysts warn that strikes may not weaken JNIM enough and could benefit the rival Islamic State in the Sahel."