Chad has terminated its defense cooperation agreement with France, potentially leading to the withdrawal of French troops from the country.
The announcement, made by Chad’s foreign ministry on Thursday, emphasized the nation’s intent to assert its sovereignty more than six decades after gaining independence.
The decision marks a significant shift in Chad’s strategic partnerships, as it seeks to redefine its alliances.
While Chad has historically cooperated with Western nations in countering Islamic militants, it has increasingly fostered ties with Russia, following a regional trend among several Sahel countries.
This move further diminishes France’s influence in West and Central Africa, following troop expulsions from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso after military coups in those nations.
The departure of French forces underscores a growing alignment with Russia, which has expanded its presence in the region through mercenaries and diplomatic ties.
France currently has around 1,000 troops and warplanes stationed in Chad.
This strategic realignment regional security experts says, reflects broader shifts in the geopolitical landscape of the Sahel.