The military-led government in Ouagadougou has officially severed all diplomatic ties with France, citing repeated failures to uphold mutual respect and non-interference, as announced by Burkina Faso‘s Minister of Communication, Gilbert Ouedraogo, during a televised address on state broadcaster RTB.
The breakdown in relations between Burkina Faso and France has intensified since the September 2022 coup that brought Captain Ibrahim Traoré to power. Tensions peaked with demands for the withdrawal of French troops stationed in the country and the expulsion of several French diplomats, including the ambassador.
In a strategic shift, Ouagadougou has increasingly aligned itself with Russia and neighboring military-led nations like Mali and Niger, forging new alliances beyond traditional Western partnerships.
France responds with strong condemnation
France swiftly condemned the decision, labeling it
