Citing a severe fuel shortage and an “unpredictable” security situation, both the United States and Italy have issued emergency advisories urging their citizens to leave Mali immediately.
The warnings highlight the rapidly deteriorating conditions in the West African nation, which has been grappling with an escalating energy crisis and increased militant activity.
On Tuesday, October 28, the U.S. Embassy in Bamako advised American citizens to depart the country “immediately” by air. For those unable to leave, the embassy recommended preparing a self-protection plan, noting that consular assistance is now only guaranteed in the capital. The U.S. continues to enforce its highest travel advisory, “Level 4 – Do Not Travel,” and warns against all overland travel to neighboring countries due to the high risk of attacks.
The following day, Wednesday, October 29, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a similar advisory, urging its approximately 70 citizens in Mali to leave “as soon as possible.” Rome specifically cited the security and mobility issues caused by the energy crisis as a major concern.
The logistical and security situation has worsened since September, primarily due to the armed group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) imposing a blockade on hydrocarbon imports and intensifying attacks on fuel convoys.
In response to the resulting fuel shortages, Malian authorities suspended all classes in schools and universities for two weeks, effective Monday, October 27, citing “major travel difficulties” and irregular deliveries.
MD/te/Sf/fss/abj/APA