OUAGADOUGOU (Kaab TV) – Burkina Faso has officially severed diplomatic relations with France, marking the most significant breakdown in ties between the two countries since the West African nation gained independence in 1960.
The decision was announced in an official government statement broadcast on Burkina Faso’s state television, with authorities saying the move takes immediate effect following what they described as a deterioration in bilateral relations and repeated violations of the principles of mutual respect, national sovereignty, and non-interference in internal affairs.
Communications Minister Gilbert Ouedraogo accused France of interfering in Burkina Faso’s domestic affairs and pursuing policies contrary to the country’s national interests. The government further alleged that France had supported subversive networks and groups working against Burkina Faso’s stability, although it did not publicly provide evidence to support those claims. France has previously rejected similar accusations.
Despite the diplomatic rupture, the Burkinabe government stressed that the decision applies only to official state-to-state relations and does not affect the historical, cultural, or people-to-people ties between the two nations. Authorities also assured that French nationals residing in Burkina Faso would continue to receive protection under the country’s laws and urged citizens to treat all foreign residents with respect.
Relations between Ouagadougou and Paris have steadily deteriorated since Captain Ibrahim Traoré seized power in a military coup in 2022. Since then, Burkina Faso has expelled French troops, ended military cooperation with France, expelled French diplomats, and increasingly shifted its foreign policy toward new security and economic partnerships while emphasizing national sovereignty.
France expressed regret over Burkina Faso’s decision, describing it as “hostile and unfounded,” and said it is considering reciprocal diplomatic measures. The French government also advised its citizens in Burkina Faso to remain vigilant in light of the changing diplomatic situation.
The diplomatic break is expected to have far-reaching implications for West Africa, where France has historically maintained significant political, military, and economic influence. Analysts say Burkina Faso’s decision reflects a broader geopolitical shift across the Sahel, where several military-led governments have moved to reduce French influence while pursuing alternative international partnerships.