Burkina Faso said on Friday it was breaking off diplomatic ties with ex-colonial power France after years of tension, accusing Paris of persistently acting against its interests.
“The government of Burkina Faso hereby informs the national and international community that it has decided to sever diplomatic relations with France with effect from today, June 26, 2026,” it announced in a statement read out on the West African nation’s national television.
“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,” Communications Minister Gilbert Ouedraogo said.
Ouedraogo said the decision took effect on June 26 and followed a review of relations with Paris.
He accused France of supporting “subversive networks” and “terrorists”.
France’s ministry of foreign affairs could not be immediately reached for comment though it had previously denied accusations that it backs terrorism.
