Chad announced on Thursday its decision to terminate its defence cooperation agreement with France, a significant move that may result in the withdrawal of French troops from the Central African country.
In a statement, the Chadian foreign ministry emphasized the nation’s intent to assert its full sovereignty after over six decades of independence. The termination of the 2019 revised pact is part of Chad’s strategy to redefine its global partnerships.
Historically a close ally of Western nations in combating Islamic militancy across the Sahel, Chad has been deepening ties with Russia in recent years. This decision marks another retreat for France in West and Central Africa, following similar troop expulsions from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso after military coups in those nations. These countries have also pivoted toward Russia, which maintains a significant presence in the region through its mercenary groups.
Chad’s President Mahamat Deby has been fostering closer relations with Moscow, adding to the diminishing influence of France, whose colonial and post-colonial ties to the region are increasingly under strain. The Chadian government assured that the termination would follow the agreed-upon procedures, working with French authorities to ensure a smooth transition.
The French foreign ministry has yet to respond publicly. However, the announcement coincides with a report delivered to President Emmanuel Macron earlier this week, suggesting a reduction in France’s military footprint in Chad, Gabon, and Ivory Coast—countries where it has maintained a substantial presence for decades.
As France’s foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, visited Chad’s border with Sudan on Thursday, the sudden decision appeared to catch Paris off-guard. Chad’s move underscores a growing regional trend of reasserting sovereignty while exploring strategic alignments beyond traditional Western partners.
