On Thursday, June 3, France announced the suspension of its joint military operations with Malian forces and advisory missions. An unexpected and strong announcement, even if only part of the French anti-terrorist force Barkhane is suspended, and that this decision will be reconsidered “in the coming days”. How is this message understood?
The France demands “guarantees” on the “political transition framework”. Paris asks for the same elements as ECOWAS or the African Union after Colonel Assimi Goïta’s latest coup. Respect was first announced for the deadline for the next presidential and legislative elections, which were announced for February and March 2022. Then the impossibility of the transition leaders to stand there.
In addition, as early as Sunday, Emmanuel Macron threatened to withdraw French troops if the new Malian authorities gave in to “the temptation of radical Islam.” An allusion to Mahmoud Dico’s return to the forefront? Or the possible discussions that Bamako no longer hides and wants to lead with certain jihadist groups? The Paris decision can be understood as an increase in pressure on these topics.
A blow to the image of France in Mali
We cannot rule out the French-French scope of this communication. Before the 2022 election, President Macron may try to reduce a costly external operation, often poorly perceived by French public opinion, and that the political competitors of the current head of state, especially on the extreme right, such as Marine Le Pen, do not hesitate to attack.
This decision – the same as the United States had already made, although the US military presence is much smaller, does not affect Barkhane’s main operations and will be re-evaluated “in the coming days.” On the ground, its consequences should therefore remain limited, but its brutality may not improve France’s image in the country.
At a time when, with different motives, more and more Malays are more and more openly expressing their desire to see their country come closer to Russia.
Guest Africa: Suspension of joint operations: “Malian army loses large capacity for intervention” (General Trinquand)
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