Chad has officially ended its defense cooperation agreement with France, a decision that could lead to the withdrawal of French troops stationed in the country. The announcement, made by Chad’s foreign ministry on Thursday, reflects the nation’s desire to assert greater sovereignty and re-evaluate its international alliances after more than 60 years of independence.
The defense pact, originally revised in 2019, has been a key element of Chad’s security relationship with France. However, in a statement, the Chadian government emphasized that the termination of the agreement would allow the country to redefine its strategic partnerships in a manner more aligned with its current national interests. The statement also assured that the process would respect the agreed-upon procedures and timelines, with both countries working together to ensure a smooth transition.
This move comes amid a broader regional shift in Africa, as several nations, including Chad, pivot away from traditional Western alliances. Chad has long been a key partner in the fight against insurgent groups in the Sahel region, cooperating closely with France and other Western nations. However, in recent years, Chad has strengthened its ties with Russia, which has become increasingly influential in the region. Russian mercenaries are now deployed across the Sahel, and Chad’s leadership has fostered closer ties with Moscow, further distancing itself from its historical ally, France.
The termination of the defense pact with France is part of a larger trend across West and Central Africa, where countries have sought to reduce French military influence. Following recent coups in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, which saw the ousting of pro-Western governments, French forces have been forced to withdraw from these countries. In their place, Russian-backed paramilitary groups have gained ground, with the Wagner group and other Russian entities increasing their presence across the region.
France currently has approximately 1,000 troops and military aircraft stationed in Chad, where it has maintained a long-term military presence. In light of Chad’s decision, France’s response remains unclear. However, a recent report to French President Emmanuel Macron had already suggested reducing France’s military footprint in Chad, Gabon, and Ivory Coast, where French forces have been stationed for decades.
Chad’s foreign ministry underscored that the termination of the defense agreement should not affect the friendly relations between the two nations. Earlier this year, Chad also requested the withdrawal of a small contingent of U.S. special operations forces from the country, though discussions are ongoing about their potential return.
The decision by Chad to end its defense cooperation with France marks a significant moment in the shifting geopolitical landscape of the Sahel, as African nations increasingly assert their independence and explore new alliances.
