Burkina Faso's military government announced Friday it has broken off diplomatic relations with France, citing persistent actions against national interests.
3:34 PM
Burkina Faso has severed diplomatic relations with France, the government announced Friday. "The government of Burkina Faso hereby informs the national and international community that it has decided to sever diplomatic relations with France with effect from today, June 26, 2026," according to a statement read on national television.
Communications Minister Pingdwendé Gilbert Ouédraogo delivered the televised statement, accusing France of "ceaseless activism" against the country and of pursuing "neo-colonial ambitions." The military junta, led by Captain Ibrahim Traore, cited France's persistent actions against Burkina Faso's national interests as the reason for the rupture.
Relations between the two nations have deteriorated since Traore seized power in a coup in 2022. The military government has pursued largely anti-Western policies and moved closer to Russia during this period, widening the rift with its former colonial ruler.
France's foreign ministry responded to the decision, calling it "hostile and unfounded." The ministry said the move "illustrated the troubling drift by the Burkinabe government." France also urged its nationals in Burkina Faso "to exercise heightened vigilance" following the announcement.
Burkina Faso, like its neighbour Mali, has been battling an armed insurgency in recent years. The country's military government has faced international scrutiny over its governance and security approach.
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