Fri Sep 19 20:21:44 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewritten news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
France has suspended counterterrorism cooperation with Mali and expelled two Malian diplomats from Paris in response to the arrest of a French national, Yann Vezilier, in Mali. Vezilier, accused of plotting a coup and allegedly working for French intelligence, is a member of the French embassy in Bamako. Mali had already expelled five French embassy staff. This escalation of tensions follows a deterioration of relations between the two countries since a military coup in Mali in 2020, with Mali increasingly turning to Russia for security support.
**News Article:**
**France Suspends Counterterrorism Cooperation, Expels Malian Diplomats Amid Rising Tensions**
**Paris, France** – France has announced the suspension of its counterterrorism cooperation with Mali and ordered the expulsion of two Malian diplomats from Paris, signaling a sharp deterioration in relations between the two nations. The move comes in response to the arrest in Mali of Yann Vezilier, a French national and member of the French embassy in Bamako, on charges of plotting a coup.
“France has declared two members of the Malian embassy and consulate in Paris persona non grata,” the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs stated. “This action is a direct response to the unfounded arrest of our national in Mali.”
Malian authorities allege that Vezilier was acting on behalf of French intelligence and had attempted to destabilize the country by mobilizing political leaders, civil society actors, and military personnel. France vehemently denies these accusations, calling them “unfounded.” Mali had previously expelled five French embassy staff.
A French diplomatic source stated that further measures would be implemented if Vezilier is not released.
Relations between France and Mali, a former French colony, have been strained since a military coup in 2020 brought President Assimi Goita to power. The military government has distanced itself from France, expelling French forces and seeking security assistance from Russia instead.
Mali has been grappling with a severe security crisis since 2012, fueled by armed groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and ISIL (ISIS), as well as local criminal gangs. This suspension of counterterrorism cooperation raises concerns about the future of security efforts in the region. The current Malian government extended its rule for another five years in June, defying earlier assurances that civilian leadership would resume in March 2024.
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