Chad and Senegal End French Military Presence in Historic Shift

The decisions mark a significant blow to France's influence in Africa, emphasizing calls for sovereignty and a redefined relationship with former colonies.

Chad and Senegal have announced the termination of defense agreements with France, signaling the closure of French military bases in both countries.
Chad's government emphasized the move as a step toward asserting full sovereignty and redefining its international partnerships.
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye framed the decision as aligning with the country's vision of independence and sovereignty.
The announcements follow similar expulsions of French troops from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger in recent years, further shrinking France's military footprint in Africa.
France has expressed surprise at the decisions and has been reassessing its military strategy in Africa, where its presence has faced growing public and political opposition.

Courrier International