Mali and Burkina Faso Ban U.S. Travelers: A Diplomatic Response

Wed Dec 31 2025 15:49:23 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a surprising diplomatic tit-for-tat, Mali and Burkina Faso implement travel bans for U.S. citizens, mirroring recent restrictions by the Trump administration. This move signals growing tensions between these West African nations and the U.S.

Mali and Burkina Faso have announced travel bans on U.S. citizens, retaliating against similar measures imposed by the Trump administration. The bans were put in place due to tensions surrounding U.S. immigration policies, highlighting the principle of reciprocity and frustrations regarding unilateral decisions by the U.S. The action follows a pattern seen in neighboring Niger, showcasing regional solidarity among military-led governments moving away from Western powers.

Mali and Burkina Faso say they will bar US citizens from entering their countries in response to a similar move by the Trump administration.

The two West African states were recently placed under full entry restrictions under US President Donald Trump's expanded travel ban.

In separate statements, they said they would apply the same measures on US nationals.

Burkina Faso's foreign affairs minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré stated his government was acting on the principle of reciprocity, while Mali's foreign ministry emphasized the need for mutual respect and sovereign equality.

Mali regretted the US's travel ban, adding that such a significant decision was made without prior consultation.

This decision follows Niger's announcement of a similar travel ban on US citizens. All three nations are governed by military juntas and have pivoted towards Russia amidst strained relations with the US and other Western powers.

Earlier this month, the White House called for full-entry restrictions on individuals from these countries, with the measure set to take effect on 1 January to enhance US security.