France has officially advised its citizens to leave Mali immediately, citing a severe deterioration in the security situation following a series of coordinated attacks across the country on April 25.
The Operative Information Center-OMM, citing foreign media reports, notes that the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the security environment remains extremely fragile, particularly in the capital, Bamako, and northern regions. Paris has urged its nationals to utilize commercial airlines to exit the country as soon as possible, while also recommending the restriction of domestic travel and strict adherence to instructions from local authorities.
The escalation follows simultaneous assaults by the "Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin" (JNIM) and the "Azawad Liberation Front" (FLA) on key strategic sites, including the Kati military base and the Modibo Keita International Airport. During the unrest, a suicide attack targeted the residence of Mali's Defense Minister, Sadio Camara, in Kati. Reports indicate that the minister sustained critical injuries and later passed away at a hospital. Meanwhile, the FLA claimed full control over the northern city of Kidal, stating that "Russian Africa Corps" mercenaries and local government forces had withdrawn following an agreement.
In response to the attacks, the Malian military launched a large-scale counter-terrorism operation. Official statements confirm that over 100 militants were neutralized during airstrikes in the Koulikoro region. Mali has faced persistent instability since 2012, characterized by insurgencies and complex political transitions. The recent withdrawal of international peacekeeping forces and the shifting dynamics of local alliances have further complicated the security landscape in the West African nation, prompting international concerns over regional stability.
