Burkina Faso has announced the immediate termination of diplomatic relations with France, marking a significant shift in its foreign policy amid growing tensions with its former colonial power.
According to Anadolu Agency on Saturday, June 27, 2026, the Burkinabe government said it reached the decision after reviewing bilateral relations and concluding that they no longer reflected mutual respect, reciprocal trust, non-interference in domestic affairs and respect for national sovereignty.
Authorities accused France of “persistent activism” against Burkina Faso’s interests and alleged that Paris supported subversive and terrorist networks contributing to insecurity in Burkina Faso and the wider Sahel region, although no evidence was provided.
“Faced with these imperialist ambitions aimed at dominating our country and subjugating our people, we have chosen responsibility and sovereignty,” the government said.
Despite severing diplomatic ties, Burkina Faso stressed that the decision does not amount to hostility toward France. It said historical and cultural ties would remain, assured French nationals of their safety and legal protection, and urged citizens to treat foreigners peacefully. The government added that it remains committed to international partnerships based on sovereign equality, mutual respect and non-interference.
