By HAN News Desk
BAMAKO— The West African nations of Mali and Burkina Faso have barred U.S. citizens from entering their territories, calling the move a retaliatory response to restrictions imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump on travelers from the two countries, the Associated Press reported.
Officials in Bamako and Ouagadougou said the decision was taken on the basis of reciprocity, arguing that it was unjust for their citizens to face entry bans while Americans continued to enjoy access to their countries.
“The principle of equal treatment between states requires that we respond in kind,” a Malian government official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly.
The bans apply to U.S. passport holders seeking entry for tourism, business or short-term visits, according to officials from both governments. Diplomatic personnel and representatives of international organizations are expected to be exempt, though details of the exemptions were not immediately made public.
Burkina Faso’s military-led government said the measure was intended to defend national dignity and sovereignty, adding that the country “cannot accept discriminatory policies targeting its citizens.”
The restrictions come amid strained relations between Washington and the two Sahel nations, both of which are governed by military juntas following coups in recent years. Mali and Burkina Faso have increasingly distanced themselves from Western partners, including the United States and France, while strengthening ties with non-Western allies.
The U.S. travel restrictions cited by the two governments were introduced during Trump’s presidency as part of broader immigration measures that targeted several countries, citing security and vetting concerns. Those policies were criticized at the time by human rights groups and affected governments, who described them as unfair and politically motivated.
The U.S. State Department did not immediately comment on the bans. Analysts say the move is largely symbolic but reflects deepening diplomatic rifts between Washington and parts of West Africa’s Sahel region.
Mali and Burkina Faso have faced growing insecurity linked to extremist violence, as well as economic and humanitarian challenges, and both governments have accused Western countries of failing to adequately support their fight against armed groups.
The bans are the latest in a series of measures underscoring the shifting geopolitical landscape in the region, where relations with traditional Western partners continue to deteriorate.
