France has initiated diplomatic discussions with Malian authorities following the detention of a French embassy staff member in Bamako. Malian officials announced the arrest on Thursday, alleging the French national was involved with intelligence services aiming to destabilize the country.
The military junta, in power since successive coups in 2020 and 2021, also claimed dozens of soldiers were detained for plotting a government overthrow. France condemned the accusations as “unjustified” and confirmed talks were underway to secure the “immediate release” of its consular employee.
The French Foreign Ministry emphasised the staff member is protected under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, ensuring diplomatic immunity and safety. Yann Vezilier, the French national, was detained alongside Gen. Abbass Dembele, a former governor of central Mopti, and Brig. Gen. Naima Sagara.
Tensions between Paris and Bamako have escalated in recent years, with Mali’s military ending security cooperation with France entirely. The West African nation has increasingly sought closer military and strategic ties with Russia, further straining relations with the French government.
Diplomats hope the talks will de-escalate the situation and prevent a further deterioration in the already fragile ties between both nations. Observers warn the arrests could deepen Mali’s international isolation while highlighting the precarious position of foreign nationals amid ongoing political instability.
