Burkina Faso has officially cut diplomatic ties with France, a move Paris describes as “hostile and baseless,” while considering reciprocal measures.

Tensions between Ouagadougou and Paris have escalated sharply. On Friday, June 26, Burkina Faso announced the severance of diplomatic relations with France, marking a new chapter in the deteriorating ties between the Sahel nation and its former colonial power.

In a statement read on national television, Burkinabe authorities denounced what they called “the relentless activism of the current French regime against Burkina Faso’s interests, openly neocolonial ambitions backed by active support for subversive networks and terrorists who bring grief to our country and the Sahel.”

Ouagadougou also stressed that the decision “solely targets the institutional framework of relations between the two states on a diplomatic level” and “in no way affects the historical, human, cultural and social bonds that unite the Burkinabe and French peoples.” The government reaffirmed its “commitment to ensuring the protection of foreign nationals residing in the country.”

France examines reciprocal measures after Burkina Faso rupture

Acknowledging what it termed a “unilateral decision,” the French Foreign Ministry expressed regret over a move it considers “hostile and without foundation,” while confirming that reciprocal measures are under review.

“French authorities are paying close attention to the safety of state personnel present in the country and of the French community living in Burkina Faso. In this particular context, they call on French nationals to exercise enhanced vigilance,” said Pascal Confavreux, spokesperson for the French diplomatic corps.

Since Captain Ibrahim Traoré came to power through a coup in September 2022, relations between Burkina Faso and France have steadily deteriorated. Ouagadougou secured the withdrawal of French forces from its territory, denounced 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.