France has advised its citizens to leave Mali “as soon as possible” following a surge in coordinated attacks by separatist and Islamist groups, warning that the security situation has become “extremely volatile.” The advisory also cautions against all travel to the country.
Recent violence has seen explosions and gunfire reported across several areas, including the capital Bamako. In Kati, Defence Minister Sadio Camara was reportedly killed in a suspected suicide bombing, while separatist forces have seized control of Kidal.
Despite the unrest, Mali’s military leader Assimi Goïta insists the situation is under control, stating that government forces have dealt a significant blow to attackers and that operations are ongoing. However, a spokesperson for the Azawad Liberation Front has vowed to continue offensives, with plans to expand control to other northern cities.
Other countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States, have issued similar warnings, urging their nationals to leave or shelter in place. Authorities have cited ongoing terrorist threats, armed clashes, and unsafe travel routes as major concerns, even as Bamako’s international airport remains operational.
The developments highlight the worsening security crisis in Mali, where a prolonged insurgency involving Tuareg separatists and Islamist militants continues to challenge the military-led government.
