France urges citizens to leave Mali amid rebel attacks

France has advised its citizens to leave Mali immediately following a series of coordinated attacks by separatist fighters and Islamist militants.

The French foreign ministry described the security situation in Mali as "extremely volatile" and warned against all travel to the country.

The attacks occurred over the weekend and included explosions and sustained gunfire in multiple locations, including the capital city, Bamako.

In Kati, a town near the capital, Mali's defence leader Sadio Camara was killed in an apparent suicide bombing by militants.

Separatist forces have also taken control of the northern city of Kidal.

Mali's military leader, General Assimi Goïta, stated that the security situation was under control and that the army had dealt a "violent blow" to the attackers.

Despite this, both France and the United Kingdom have issued travel advisories urging their citizens to leave Mali and avoid travel due to unpredictable and dangerous conditions.

The UK Foreign Office specifically warned against travel by land to neighbouring countries, citing terrorist attacks along national highways.

British citizens remaining in Mali were advised to have a personal emergency plan and were reminded that they remain in the country at their own risk.

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