France has issued an urgent call for its citizens to leave Mali "as soon as possible" following a wave of coordinated attacks by separatist fighters and Islamist militants over the weekend. The French foreign ministry updated its travel advisory on Wednesday, warning that the security situation in the West African country is "extremely volatile" and strongly discouraging all travel to the region.
Explosions and sustained gunfire erupted across the country on Saturday, including in the capital, Bamako. In Kati, the defense leader Sadio Camara was killed in an apparent suicide bombing, while in the north, separatist forces seized control of the city of Kidal.
Mali's military leader, General Assimi Goïta, addressed the nation on Tuesday evening, stating that the army had dealt a "violent blow" to the attackers and that operations were ongoing. He insisted the security situation was under control.
The French foreign ministry advised citizens to arrange departure on commercial flights while they are still available, and to remain at home, limit movements, and follow local authorities' instructions until they can leave. The UK has also advised against all travel to Mali, urging its citizens to leave immediately by commercial flight if safe, and warning against overland travel to neighboring countries due to the risk of terrorist attacks on highways.
Bamako International Airport remains open, but travelers are advised to check for delays or cancellations. The US embassy in Mali said it is closely monitoring the situation and advised citizens to shelter in place and avoid areas where security operations are underway.
Fighting on Saturday was reported in Bamako, Kati, Gao, Kidal, and the central cities of Sevare and Mopti, continuing into Sunday in some areas. The separatist Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), seeking an independent Tuareg state, focused on northern cities, while the jihadist group Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) launched simultaneous attacks across multiple locations.
Mali is under military rule led by General Goïta, who came to power in a 2020 coup promising to restore security. The junta initially enjoyed popular support but has struggled to contain the insurgency. After UN peacekeepers and French forces withdrew, the government hired Russian mercenaries to combat insecurity, yet large parts of the country remain beyond government control.