In recent months, a new Russian military unit known as the Africa Corps has been operating in Mali, replacing the controversial Wagner mercenary group. This unit has been implicated in numerous human rights abuses, including beheadings and rapes, as they collaborate with Mali's military to combat extremist groups. Testimonies from over 30 fleeing refugees detail the harrowing experiences and violence they witnessed, which echoes the tactics previously employed by Wagner fighters, indicating a continuity of brutality. Reports state that civilians are caught in dire circumstances, pressured by both armed militants and the Africa Corps, leading to devastating impacts on their lives and safety. The Africa Corps, under direct command from Russia's Ministry of Defense, raises significant concerns regarding state responsibility for potential war crimes committed under its authority. Experts propose that these actions could be attributed to the Russian government, aligning with international law's rules on state accountability. As civilians share their distressing stories, such as one woman who fled while leaving her infant behind, it becomes evident that the situation in Mali is dire, and life for many has been irrevocably altered.