U.S. Embassy in Mali Urges Citizens to Leave Immediately Amid Escalating Security Crisis

The U.S. Embassy in Bamako has urged all American citizens to leave Mali immediately due to deteriorating security conditions, widespread violence, and severe fuel shortages disrupting essential services.

In a security alert issued Tuesday, the embassy advised Americans to depart via commercial flights, warning that overland routes to neighboring countries are unsafe because of frequent terrorist attacks along national highways.

The embassy also cautioned that it may not be able to provide routine or emergency consular assistance outside Bamako and recommended that those remaining prepare contingency plans, including the possibility of sheltering in place.

Last week, non-essential diplomatic staff and their families were ordered to leave the country amid worsening conditions.

Mali has been grappling with a fuel crisis caused by armed groups blocking tanker routes, leading to transportation disruptions, long queues at gas stations, and the temporary suspension of schools nationwide.

The embassy reiterated its warning for Americans to avoid travel to Mali, remain vigilant, and stay away from demonstrations and roadblocks.