France has completed the withdrawal of all its diplomatic personnel from Burkina Faso, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing diplomatic rupture between the two nations. This move aligns with a roadmap previously outlined by Ouagadougou, following a unilateral decision by the Burkinabè authorities.

On June 26, the transitional government led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré declared an end to diplomatic relations with France. Ouagadougou accused Paris of “incessant activism” detrimental to Burkinabè interests and of providing support to “subversive networks.”

In response to Burkina Faso‘s announcement, the French Foreign Ministry, known as the Quai d’Orsay, summoned the Burkinabè chargé d’affaires in Paris. During this meeting, a reciprocal demand was made: all Burkinabè diplomatic staff were required to depart France within seven days, a deadline that expired this past Monday evening.

Burkinabè authorities have repeatedly alleged that France is backing terrorist groups, an accusation that Paris vehemently denies. The Quai d’Orsay has labeled these claims “completely false,” asserting, “We firmly condemn all terrorist attacks and reiterate our full support for the populations, who are the primary victims of the ongoing crisis.”

This latest diplomatic break follows a series of strained relations, including the earlier departure of French military forces from Burkina Faso, the recall of France‘s ambassador from Ouagadougou, and the Burkinabè government’s pivot towards new international partners, notably Russia. These developments underscore the complex and evolving dynamics of Sahel politics and broader West Africa insider news.