The full withdrawal of French diplomatic personnel from Burkina Faso has been completed, a move that parallels the departure of Burkinabe diplomats from France. This reciprocal action aligns with the strategic roadmap previously established by Ouagadougou.

The diplomatic severance gained momentum on June 26, when the administration under Captain Ibrahim Traoré unilaterally announced the termination of diplomatic relations with France. Ouagadougou accused Paris of “incessant activism” working against its national interests and providing support to “subversive networks.”

In response to this declaration, the Burkinabe chargé d’affaires in Paris was summoned. France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Quai d’Orsay, communicated that, in a spirit of reciprocity, Burkinabe diplomatic staff were also required to leave France within seven days, with the deadline expiring this past Monday evening.

Authorities in Ouagadougou have consistently alleged that France supports terrorist organizations, claims that Paris vehemently denies, labeling them “completely false.” The Quai d’Orsay emphasized its stance, stating, “We firmly condemn all terrorist attacks, and reiterate our full support for the populations, who are the primary victims of the ongoing crisis.”

This significant diplomatic rupture follows a series of escalating events, including the prior withdrawal of French military forces from Burkina Faso, the recall of France’s ambassador from Ouagadougou, and Burkina Faso’s increasing engagement with new international partners, notably Russia.