France Begins Withdrawal of Troops from Chad
France has begun its pullback from Chad, marking a significant shift in the decades-long military presence in the Central African nation. The withdrawal comes after Chad announced the termination of its defense cooperation agreement with France last month.
End of an Era: A Turning Point for Chad
The decision to end the defense agreement signifies a turning point for Chad, a country seeking to redefine its geopolitical alliances. Chad’s foreign minister stressed that the move doesn’t negate the historical ties between the two nations, but paves the way for new partnerships aligned with Chad’s national priorities.
France’s Reshaping Presence in Africa
This withdrawal follows a pattern of France reducing its military involvement across the Sahel region. In recent years, French forces have faced growing discontent and have been expelled from Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. These countries have increasingly turned towards Russia, whose Wagner mercenary group has gained a foothold in the region.
The French Withdrawal Unfolds
Two Mirage fighter jets were flown out of Chad on Tuesday, returning to France. The gradual disengagement of the remaining 1,000 French troops is underway, with negotiations ongoing regarding the timeline and the potential for a complete withdrawal. Local demonstrations have called for the immediate departure of French forces.
A Regional Shift
Chad’s decision to break its ties with France reflects a wider shift in the geopolitical landscape of Africa. With Russia expanding its influence and France re-evaluating its commitments in the region, the Sahel faces a period of uncertainty and potential instability.
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