Burkina Faso's military government has refused to accept deportees from the US following Washington's suspension of visa issuance in the West African nation. Minister of Foreign Affairs Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré raised concerns about whether the embassy's decision constitutes 'blackmail,' highlighting his rejection of American proposals to accept migrants from third countries.
The US has targeted various African nations for deportations as part of its stricter immigration policies, particularly under the previous Trump administration. As tensions rise, the US State Department has yet to respond to inquiries regarding this situation.
Burkina Faso's leader, Capt Ibrahim Traoré, who has positioned himself as a pan-African figure opposing Western imperialism, came to power through a coup three years ago and has strained relationships with Western nations. In a statement on state broadcaster RTB, Traoré condemned the deportation proposals as indignities and 'pressures' against Burkina Faso.
On October 9, 2025, the US embassy in Ouagadougou announced the temporary suspension of all routine visa services, compelling residents to travel to neighboring Togo for embassy access. Traoré's statements echoed concerns regarding human dignity, asserting Burkina Faso ought to be viewed as a destination and not as a site for expulsion.
Traoré disclosed that he has had multiple discussions with the US Embassy, emphasizing his commitment to the dignity of Burkina Faso. His remarks reflect an increasing trend among African countries to resist US deportation efforts, with Nigeria also declining to accept US deportees amid national challenges.
As several African nations have recently agreed to accept US deportees, Burkina Faso stands firm in its rejection, reflecting broader frustrations regarding US immigration practices and diplomatic negotiations.
