France has urged its citizens to leave Mali “as soon as possible,” just days after coordinated attacks carried out by terrorist groups and separatist movements on Saturday, April 25, 2026. The attacks targeted several locations across the country, including the capital, Bamako, with authorities confirming that the security situation remains “highly volatile.”
In an official statement, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: “As a reminder, travel to Mali remains strongly discouraged, regardless of the reason.” It added: “In light of this evolving situation, French citizens currently in Mali are strongly advised to remain in their homes, maintain contact with their families and loved ones, and keep them regularly informed of the latest developments.”
According to a report by Radio France Internationale, the total number of French nationals registered in the consular registry stands at 4,200, in addition to approximately 3,000 unregistered citizens. Around one-third of these are dual nationals living in the Malian capital, Bamako.
In a notable development, the head of Mali’s ruling military council, General Assimi Goïta, reappeared on national television on April 28, stating that the situation is “very serious,” and calling on the population not to be drawn into “division.”
The situation in Mali remains tense following coordinated attacks carried out by jihadist fighters from Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin and the Azawad Liberation Front on April 25 and 26, targeting several cities across the country.
During these attacks, Malian Defense Minister Sadio Camara was killed, marking a significant escalation, while rebel forces took control of the northern city of Kidal, further complicating the already fragile security and political landscape in the country.
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