Burkina Faso severs ties with France as Paris retaliates

The military government of Burkina Faso announced on Friday, June 26, that it is breaking diplomatic relations with France, accusing Paris of failing to uphold commitments of mutual respect and non-interference, according to a statement by Communications Minister Gilbert Ouedraogo broadcast on state television.

Tensions between Ouagadougou and Paris have escalated sharply since the army and Captain Ibrahim Traoré seized power in a September 2022 coup. This deterioration was highlighted by the demand for withdrawal of French soldiers stationed in the West African nation and the expulsion of diplomats, including France’s ambassador in Ouagadougou.

In its drive to diversify partnerships, Burkina Faso has grown closer to Russia and its two neighbours, Mali and Niger, both also under military regimes.

Paris considers reciprocal measures

Friday’s announcement drew a swift response from Paris. On Saturday, France condemned what it called a “unilateral,” “hostile and unfounded” decision by Burkina Faso and is weighing “reciprocal measures,” the French Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

“France regrets this hostile and unfounded decision, which illustrates the troubling drift of the Burkinabe authorities. The necessary reciprocal measures are under review,” the Quai d’Orsay declared, while urging French nationals in the country to exercise “enhanced vigilance.”