France suspends counterterrorism cooperation with Mali after accusing Malian authorities of false coup plot allegations and declaring two Malian diplomats persona non grata.
The acting foreign ministry ordered the diplomats to leave Paris this weekend in response to the detention of a French national over alleged domestic destabilization. Relations between Paris and Bamako have already been strained under Mali’s military leadership.
Shortly before this decision, Mali arrested Yann Vezilier, an employee of the French embassy in Bamako, alleging he organized a conspiracy involving soldiers and civilians.
Mali’s army claimed the plot involved foreign assistance, citing links with political actors and intelligence agencies. The French government denied all claims, calling them baseless and confirming Vezilier’s diplomatic status.
Moreover, France also expelled two members of Mali’s diplomatic mission in Paris. Those diplomats were told they must depart by the weekend.
The move came alongside a broader diplomatic counteraction, as Mali declared five French diplomats persona non grata in response. Both sides are now embroiled in tit-for-tat expulsions.
Furthermore, Mali’s junta, led by Assimi Goïta, has gradually distanced itself from France since the 2021 coup. Goïta extended his rule for another five years despite prior promises of returning to civilian government.
Over the past years, the Malian government has expelled French military forces and increasingly looked to Russia for security cooperation.
Meanwhile, the suspension of cooperation threatens existing counterterrorism efforts across the Sahel region. France played a key role in intelligence sharing, joint operations, and logistical support.
Mali’s growing alignment with other international actors may reshape alliances as security challenges persist, including Islamist insurgencies and local criminal networks.
In addition, French officials said they originally sought clarification from Mali. They urged Bamako to release Vezilier immediately and to resolve misunderstandings diplomatically.
Those officials warned that more measures will follow if the diplomat remains detained without a credible justification.
Also, observers noted that the diplomatic crisis reflects wider problems. Anti-French sentiment in Mali has surged, mirrored by political moves to limit French influence.
The arrest stirred public controversy, with Malians divided over whether the claims of foreign interference represent real threats or political theater.
In conclusion, France suspends counterterrorism cooperation with Mali, marking a serious shift in bilateral relations. The immediate future holds uncertainty over how deeply the fallout will cut into regional security partnerships.
For both countries, the cost could extend beyond politics into lives, as threats in the region require cooperation and trust.
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