There have been some skirmishes, but mainly it’s a Cold War for influence. France got kicked out and replaced by Wagner for example.
France actually does take their control over their former colonies rather seriously.
Perhaps my previous statement was a bit too bold. Let’s just say I would be very surprised if this wasn’t a factor in their decision to now prosecute the owner of Telegram.
France and Russia are at war now?
Wagner mercenaries moved into Mali after French troops withdrew from it. That's hardly the same thing as French soldiers 'fighting' Russian soldiers.