Burkina Faso has officially severed diplomatic relations with France, a move Paris describes as “hostile and baseless” and is considering reciprocal measures.

Tensions between Ouagadougou and Paris have reached a new peak. On Friday, June 26, Burkina Faso announced the end of diplomatic ties with France, marking a fresh decline in relations between the West African nation and its former colonial ruler.

In a statement broadcast on national television, Burkinabe authorities accused France of “incessant activism against the interests of Burkina Faso, blatant neocolonial ambitions, and active support for subversive networks and terrorists who cause suffering in the country and the Sahel region.”

Ouagadougou emphasised that the decision “only targets the institutional framework of bilateral diplomatic relations” and “does not in any way affect the historical, human, cultural, and social ties between the Burkinabe and French peoples,” adding that “its commitment to ensuring the protection of foreign nationals remains.”

France considers reciprocal measures

France said it took note of this “unilateral decision” and regretted a “hostile and baseless” move, while indicating that reciprocal measures are being examined.

The French Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Pascal Confavreux, stated: “French authorities are paying close attention to the safety of state personnel in the country and the French community residing in Burkina Faso. In this specific context, they call on French nationals to exercise heightened vigilance.”

Since Captain Ibrahim Traoré came to power via a coup in September 2022, relations between Burkina Faso and France have steadily deteriorated. Ouagadougou secured the withdrawal of French forces from its territory, terminated military cooperation agreements, and suspended several French media outlets.

Burkina Faso, a member of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) alongside Mali and Niger, has simultaneously strengthened partnerships with new allies, including Russia, Turkey, and Iran.