Burkina Faso cuts diplomatic ties with France, accuses Paris of undermining sovereignty

Burkina Faso’s military government has announced the severance of diplomatic relations with France, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the West African nation and its former colonial ruler.

The decision, which takes immediate effect, was announced on Friday through state television.

In a statement issued by Communications Minister Gilbert Ouedraogo, the junta said the conditions necessary for maintaining constructive relations between the two countries no longer exist.

“The essential conditions for promoting relations based on mutual respect, reciprocal trust, respect for the principle of non-interference in internal affairs, and national sovereignty are not in place,” Ouedraogo stated.

He added that the government had formally decided to end diplomatic relations with France, effective June 26, 2026.

The military administration, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, accused Paris of acting against Burkina Faso’s interests and interfering in its internal affairs. The junta further alleged that France was supporting “subversive networks” and “terrorists,” claims for which it provided no immediate evidence.

Captain Traoré came to power following a military coup in September 2022, amid growing insecurity and public frustration over the government’s handling of jihadist violence.

Relations between Burkina Faso and France have steadily deteriorated since the military takeover, with the junta pursuing closer ties with alternative international partners while distancing itself from its former colonial power.

The latest move underscores the widening rift between France and several military-led governments in the Sahel region, where anti-French sentiment has grown in recent years.