The Burkina Faso Combat Forces inflicted a crushing defeat on terrorist groups during coordinated assaults on June 30, 2026. This major offensive comes in a highly tense political context, marked by the recently announced break in diplomatic relations between the member country of the AES (Alliance of Sahel States) and France, explicitly accused by the Burkinabe authorities.

A swift military response

According to the official statement from the General Staff of the Armed Forces, the National Armed Forces (FAN) and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) faced complex and simultaneous attacks. The assaults targeted several strategic positions in the localities of Gayéri (Sirba region), as well as Solhan and Sebba (Liptako region).

Thanks to a combined action by ground units and intense air strikes, the counter-offensive succeeded in thwarting the attackers.

The logistical and human toll is heavy for the terrorists:

1. More than 400 terrorists neutralized.
2. More than 250 motorcycles seized.
3. 353 weapons of all calibers confiscated, as well as a large quantity of ammunition and communication equipment.

On the side of the regular forces, the army mourns the loss of three soldiers who fell at the front (two at Solhan and one at Gayéri) and records wounded.

France directly targeted by the General Staff

For the Burkinabe military authorities, the timing of this offensive is no coincidence. It comes the day after Burkina Faso's historic decision to sever diplomatic ties with Paris. The General Staff directly accuses the French Republic of providing direct support to these "hordes of terrorists."

“[These attacks] were clearly aimed at causing the maximum number of civilian and military casualties in order to feed the distorted narrative on the security situation in Burkina Faso. A sinister plan whose success would have been front-page news in their lying media,” the official statement said.

Operations continue and vigilance is urged

The Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces commended the bravery and professionalism of the troops involved. While offering his condolences to the families of the fallen heroes, he reassured the public: search operations are intensifying in the area to track down the last remaining fugitives.

The army reiterates its appeal to the civilian population to maintain close cooperation with the security forces and report any suspicious behavior or individuals.