France completes full diplomatic withdrawal from Burkina Faso

The reciprocal withdrawal of diplomatic personnel between Burkina Faso and France has now concluded, aligning with a strategic directive from Ouagadougou. This follows the June 26 unilateral declaration by Captain Ibrahim Traoré‘s regime, announcing the severing of diplomatic ties with France. The Burkinabe authorities accused Paris of engaging in “incessant activism” detrimental to its national interests and of providing backing to subversive networks.

In response to this significant announcement, the chargé d’affaires for Burkina Faso in Paris was summoned. French diplomatic officials conveyed, in a spirit of reciprocity, that Burkinabe diplomatic staff were required to depart France within a seven-day period, a deadline that expired this past Monday evening.

Ouagadougou’s government has leveled accusations against France, claiming support for terrorist factions. Paris vehemently refutes these allegations, labeling them “completely false.” French officials stated, “We unequivocally condemn all terrorist attacks and reaffirm our unwavering support for the populations, who bear the brunt of the ongoing crisis.”

This definitive break in relations follows several preceding developments, including the departure of French military forces from Burkina Faso, the recall of the French ambassador from Ouagadougou, and the Burkinabe authorities’ increasing alignment with new international partners, notably Russia.