After making a statement about Mali's government, Mali ordered the French ambassador to leave the country.
The French ambassador to Mali told the media that Mali's interim government was illegal and out of control.
The Malian government called the French ambassador's statement "provocative" and ordered him to leave the country within 72 hours.
French Defense Minister Florence Parley says Mali's military rulers are provoking France.
France says the number of French troops stationed in Mali since 2013 will also be reduced. France has sent troops to quell unrest in Mali.
In Mali, a military government took power in 2020 and announced a military government until 2025.
Relations between France and Mali have been strained since the establishment of military rule in Mali.
