Three African Countries Leaving France Behind, Turning to Russia Instead

Burkina Faso just broke ties with France, completing a dramatic shift across West Africa. Mali and Niger already did the same. All three—currently run by military governments—are now hiring Russian security forces instead of relying on French troops and influence. These countries ruled by France as colonies for decades are rejecting that old relationship, fueled by public anger over French economic control and a sense of reclaiming independence.