Burkina Faso Diplomatic Crisis: France Pulls All Diplomats

French diplomats in Burkina Faso have been recalled to Paris, with the remaining personnel expected to leave by July 6th. The French government has condemned the decision as ‘hostile and unfounded’.

The move comes after the Burkinabè government announced its intention to sever ties with France on June 26th. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it had taken the necessary steps to ensure the safety of French citizens in the country.

President Ibrahim Traore has been criticized for his authoritarian stance, which has led to a deterioration in relations with Western countries, particularly France. The government has accused Paris of ‘activism’ against its interests but maintains that the relationship between the two nations is not affected.

Background

The current crisis began after Traore took power in a military coup in September 2022. His regime has been accused of repression and hostility towards critics, particularly those critical of Western powers like France.

In recent months, the Burkinabè government has pursued a policy of sovereignty and repressed dissenting voices, including critics of its actions against French interests.

France had previously maintained a significant military presence in Burkina Faso as part of efforts to combat terrorism in the region. However, following Traore’s rise to power, France began to reduce its troop levels in the country.