US Nationals Urged to Leave Mali "Immediately" Due to Rising Uncertainty
The U.S. Embassy in Bamako has issued an urgent warning, advising American citizens to leave the country "immediately" as security concerns escalate in the capital city. The embassy cites persistent infrastructure challenges, including fuel shortages and closures of public institutions, which have created a volatile security situation.
The State Department's Level 4 travel advisory for Mali now warns against traveling to the West African nation due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, unrest, and health concerns. The level of risk has intensified following the imposition of blockades on fuel imports by militants affiliated with Al-Qaeda, leading to ongoing armed conflict, nationwide fuel shortages, and the closure of schools and universities.
Residents and visitors alike are advised to exercise extreme caution when traveling in Mali. Overland travel is deemed unsafe due to terrorist attacks along national highways, while air travel remains available through the international airport in Bamako.
The embassy has also cautioned U.S. citizens against public demonstrations, roadblocks, and driving through areas where security is uncertain. To ensure their safety, Americans are advised to prepare contingency plans for emergency situations, including finding a place of shelter for an extended period.
Additionally, the State Department recommends that U.S. citizens draft a will, make arrangements with loved ones regarding care or custody of children, pets, and property, and leave DNA samples with a medical provider for potential identification purposes in case of an emergency.
With the situation likely to continue deteriorating, American nationals are urged to utilize commercial aviation to depart Mali as soon as possible.
The U.S. Embassy in Bamako has issued an urgent warning, advising American citizens to leave the country "immediately" as security concerns escalate in the capital city. The embassy cites persistent infrastructure challenges, including fuel shortages and closures of public institutions, which have created a volatile security situation.
The State Department's Level 4 travel advisory for Mali now warns against traveling to the West African nation due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, unrest, and health concerns. The level of risk has intensified following the imposition of blockades on fuel imports by militants affiliated with Al-Qaeda, leading to ongoing armed conflict, nationwide fuel shortages, and the closure of schools and universities.
Residents and visitors alike are advised to exercise extreme caution when traveling in Mali. Overland travel is deemed unsafe due to terrorist attacks along national highways, while air travel remains available through the international airport in Bamako.
The embassy has also cautioned U.S. citizens against public demonstrations, roadblocks, and driving through areas where security is uncertain. To ensure their safety, Americans are advised to prepare contingency plans for emergency situations, including finding a place of shelter for an extended period.
Additionally, the State Department recommends that U.S. citizens draft a will, make arrangements with loved ones regarding care or custody of children, pets, and property, and leave DNA samples with a medical provider for potential identification purposes in case of an emergency.
With the situation likely to continue deteriorating, American nationals are urged to utilize commercial aviation to depart Mali as soon as possible.