New clashes erupted on Sunday in the northern Malian city of Kidal between Tuareg rebels and government forces reportedly backed by Russian fighters, according to local sources.

A spokesperson for the rebels said fighting resumed in the morning, adding that their aim is to expel what they described as “Russian fighters” from a military camp.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, calling for coordinated international support to address growing threats of extremism and terrorism in the Sahel region.

He also emphasized the urgent need to respond to humanitarian needs amid the deteriorating security situation in Mali.