Mali crisis: Macron criticizes junta’s decision to expel French forces
As jihadist offensives intensify across Mali, French President Emmanuel Macron has sharply criticized the Malian junta’s decision to force the withdrawal of French military troops. Speaking during an official visit to Nairobi, Macron stated that Bamako’s move was not “the wisest choice” given the escalating security threats.
Unprecedented jihadist offensive threatens Bamako
Since late April, Mali has faced a coordinated offensive by jihadist groups and predominantly Tuareg rebel movements. This surge has severely tested the military junta that seized power through coups in 2020 and 2021, leaving several regions under escalating insecurity despite ongoing counteroperations.
France-Mali relations strained after troop withdrawal
The expulsion of French military forces in 2022 marked a historic rift between Paris and Bamako. This diplomatic fracture subsequently spread to Burkina Faso and Niger, where similar military coups led to the departure of French troops. For years, France’s military presence in the Sahel region has sparked significant political and popular tensions.
The president’s remarks come at a critical juncture as Mali’s security situation continues to deteriorate, with jihadist groups gaining ground and threatening the capital’s stability.
