The departure of French diplomatic personnel from Burkina Faso, alongside the recall of Burkinabè diplomats from France, marks the culmination of a directive initiated by Ouagadougou. On June 26, the government led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré unilaterally declared an end to diplomatic relations with France. Ouagadougou accused Paris of what it termed “incessant activism” against Burkinabè interests and of providing support to subversive networks.

Following this declaration, Burkina Faso’s chargé d’affaires in Paris was summoned by the French Foreign Ministry, Quai d’Orsay. In a move reflecting reciprocity, the French government communicated that Burkinabè diplomatic staff were also required to leave France within seven days, a deadline that expired this past Monday evening.

Burkinabè authorities have leveled accusations against France, claiming its involvement in supporting terrorist groups. Paris has vehemently denied these allegations, branding them as “completely false.” The Quai d’Orsay further stated its firm condemnation of all terrorist attacks, reaffirming its unwavering support for the civilian populations who are enduring the severe impact of the ongoing crisis.

This significant diplomatic estrangement follows a series of events, including the earlier withdrawal of French military forces from Burkina Faso and the recall of France’s ambassador from Ouagadougou. Concurrently, Burkina Faso has been actively forging closer ties with alternative international partners, most notably Russia, signaling a pronounced shift in its foreign policy direction.