The Sentry published in August 2025 a report titled "Mercenary Meltdown: The Wagner Group's Failure in Mali."
Wagner Group forces were unable to take control of areas in the north and center of Mali where armed terrorist and separatist groups continue to challenge Malian security forces. There has been a significant increase in attacks on civilians and in civilian casualties since Wagner's arrival in Mali, and this, in turn, has severely undermined relations between the Malian military and the Malian public.
The Wagner Group became more reactive and violent, allowing the terrorist groups they were hired to neutralize to gain more control and increase recruitment in Mali. Wagner failed in its task of eliminating terrorist groups in Mali. Its deployment in Mali has not been a worthwhile investment for any party involved. Russia's Africa Corps is replacing the Wagner Group.
