Burkina Faso cuts diplomatic ties with France amid deepening rift

Burkina Faso has severed diplomatic relations with France, the government announced on state television on June 26, marking a further deterioration in ties with its former colonial ruler amid longstanding disputes over security, sovereignty and alleged foreign interference.

Communications Minister Gilbert Ouedraogo said the decision took effect on June 26 following a review of relations with Paris, Reuters reports. 

"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," Ouedraogo said.

He also accused France of supporting "subversive networks" and "terrorists."

By Sabina Mammadli