France, May 17 -- Separatists from the Tuareg-led Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) along with the al-Qaeda-linked jihadist Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) launched the assaults on 25 and 26 April, dealing a serious blow to the junta and its leader, General Assimi Goita.

The deadly offensive targeted strategic towns and killed the country's influential defence minister, Sadio Camara.

Since the attacks, the military has lost control of several areas in the north of the country, including the key city of Kidal - a symbolic stronghold long contested between the Malian state and Tuareg-led rebellions.

The jihadists have also been blockading strategic routes leading to the capital Bamako since 30 April.

Mali has been ruled by...