France has condemned Burkina Faso's decision to unilaterally sever the two countries’ diplomatic relations, describing the move as "hostile and baseless" while warning that reciprocal measures are under consideration.
In a statement issued by the spokesperson for the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Paris expressed regret over the decision, saying it reflected what it called a "worrying drift" in the conduct of Burkina Faso's military authorities.
"The French authorities note Burkina Faso's unilateral decision to break off diplomatic relations with France," the statement said.
"France regrets this hostile and baseless decision, which illustrates the worrying drift in the Burkinabe authorities' behaviour. The necessary reciprocal measures are currently being considered."
The diplomatic fallout marks another escalation in the deteriorating relationship between France and several military-led governments in West Africa, where anti-French sentiment has intensified in recent years.
