Relations between France and Mali have hit a low point, with both countries trading hostile comments in public about what the other is doing.

Mali’s military rulers accuse France of supplying arms to anti-government militants. Paris denies this and is unhappy about Mali’s working relationship with Russian mercenaries.

Things are so bad that President Emmanuel Macron announces the withdrawal of French troops. They were sent in 9 years ago to help fight Islamist militants, who still pose a threat across the region.

On this week’s inquiry, we look at why the French have departed, and what this means for Mali.

Presenter: Charmaine Cozier
Producer: Louise Clarke-Rowbotham
Researcher: Christopher Blake
Editor: Tara McDermott
Technical Producer: Richard Hannaford
Broadcast Coordinator: Jacqui Johnson

(Photo by THOMAS COEX/AFP via Getty Images)