Mali’s junta expels French ambassador as tensions mount

By BABA AHMED and ANGELA CHARLTON
Associated Press

BAMAKO, Mali (AP) — Mali’s ruling junta has told the French ambassador to Mali to leave the country, accusing France of undermining its legitimacy amid mounting tensions between Mali and international partners. Monday’s action raises questions about a French-led anti-terrorist military operation present in Mali, at the request of Malian leaders. France’s government has not immediately reacted to the expulsion. This comes days after the Malian government ordered Danish soldiers deployed in the French-led Takuba military operation to leave Mali.  Tensions between Mali and its European and regional allies have been mounting in recent weeks as Mali’s interim leader Col. Assimi Goita has delayed elections until 2026 and solidified his control.