The decision was announced on June 26, 2026, through the country’s national television broadcaster.
Burkina Faso’s Minister of Communication, Gilbert Ouedraogo, said the decision took effect immediately on June 26, 2026.
The minister accused France of backing individuals and groups intent on undermining Burkina Faso’s security and of supporting terrorist organizations.
“The fundamental principles governing relations between states are based on mutual respect, reciprocal trust, and adherence to the principle of non-interference in each other’s internal affairs,” Ouedraogo said.
Relations between the two countries have steadily deteriorated since September 2022, when Ibrahim Traoré, then a captain in the army, seized power in a coup that ousted Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba.
Following the takeover, Traoré’s government terminated a military cooperation agreement with France that had been in place since 1961 and expelled the French ambassador.
The military-led government has since strengthened ties with Russia, whose relations with France have remained strained.
Burkina Faso has struggled for years with attacks by extremist groups that have killed thousands of civilians and displaced many others. France has repeatedly faced criticism from authorities in Ouagadougou over its alleged role in the country’s security challenges.
In 2024, Burkina Faso expelled three French diplomats, accusing them of engaging in activities aimed at undermining the country’s constitutionally recognized authorities.
