France has urged its citizens to leave Mali “as soon as possible” following a wave of coordinated attacks by separatist fighters and Islamist militants across the country, including in the capital, Bamako.
The French foreign ministry described the situation as “extremely volatile,” advising nationals to use remaining commercial flights while they are still available.
Citizens still in Mali have been told to remain indoors, limit movement, and follow instructions from local authorities as violence continues to unfold.
Similar warnings have been issued by the United Kingdom and the United States, reflecting growing international concern over the deteriorating security environment.
The advisory follows a series of assaults carried out on Saturday by armed groups, including the al-Qaeda-affiliated Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin and the separatist Azawad Liberation Front.
Explosions and sustained gunfire were reported in multiple locations, including Bamako, Kati, Gao, Kidal, Sevare, and Mopti.
In Kati, a key military hub near the capital, Mali’s defense leader Sadio Camara was killed in what authorities described as a suicide bombing targeting his residence.
In the north, separatist forces seized control of the strategic city of Kidal, reportedly pushing out Russian forces supporting the Malian government.
The attacks also targeted a major army base and areas near Bamako’s airport, highlighting the coordinated scope of the offensive.
Mali’s military leader, Gen Assimi Goïta, stated that the situation was under control and said the army had delivered a “violent blow” to those responsible, while indicating that operations were ongoing.
He also pledged to “neutralize” the attackers as the government responds to the escalating threat.
Despite these assurances, large parts of northern and eastern Mali remain outside government control, reflecting the persistence of a long-running insurgency.
The country has faced years of instability following a Tuareg rebellion that was later compounded by Islamist militant activity.
International forces, including UN peacekeepers and French troops, have withdrawn in recent years, while the military government has turned to Russian mercenaries for support.
The latest violence signals a continued deterioration of security conditions, prompting urgent calls for foreign nationals to leave.