PARIS, April 29 – The French government is advising all of its citizens currently in Mali to evacuate immediately after a series of coordinated attacks struck the West African nation over the weekend, according to updated travel guidance issued by France’s foreign ministry.
French officials warned that the security environment remains unpredictable, and until French nationals can depart the country, they should remain in their homes, minimize travel, and follow directives from local government officials while maintaining contact with family members. The ministry’s advisory strongly discourages any travel to Mali at this time.
The weekend violence involved al Qaeda’s West African branch and a separatist organization led by Tuareg fighters, who struck Mali’s primary military installation and locations near Bamako airport on Saturday. The same groups also forced Russian military personnel backing Mali’s government forces to withdraw from the strategically important northern city of Kidal.
On Tuesday, the head of Mali’s military administration promised to “neutralize” the individuals behind the attacks.
