Analysis-Leaving Mali would not be easy as French military feels the heat

FILE PHOTO: A supporter holds a flag of France, with the drawing of a skull on it, as he participates in a demonstration called by Mali's transitional government after ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) imposed sanctions in Bamako, Mali, January 14, 2022. The flag reads "Death to France and allies" REUTERS/Paul Lorgerie//File Photo

PARIS (Reuters) - France is considering withdrawing its troops from Mali, but adapting its strategy to prevent Islamist militancy spreading south may prove complex and contribute to uncertainty in the region.

Relations between Paris and the junta in Bamako have deteriorated https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/thousands-take-streets-bamako-anti-french-protest-2022-02-04 since it announced it would abandon some bases in the north of its former colony, reduce troop numbers and focus on hunting jihadist leaders in the region.