**France Faces Setback in Chad as Military Partnership Ends**

France's grip on its former colonies in Africa has weakened further as Chad, historically one of France's strongest military partners, has called for the departure of French troops. This significant move mirrors a shift seen in other African nations as they reconsider their alliances and seek new partnerships, notably with Russia.

The decision by Chad's leadership to sever ties with French military forces is seen as a severe blow to France, particularly given Chad's reputation as the region's most capable military power. French forces have been deeply involved in Chad's military affairs for decades, supporting various regimes and mounting operations against rebel factions. Notably, in 2019, French jets conducted airstrikes to help maintain Idriss Déby's long-standing rule.

Chad's military collaboration with France was crucial during France's intervention in Mali in 2013, where Chad’s troops played a pivotal role in defeating an Islamist insurgency. The deep military bond dates back to 1982 when French forces aided in installing the dictator Hissène Habré, later shifting support to Idriss Déby in 1990. The French presence includes regular training missions by French Mirage jets from their base in N'Djamena, the Chadian capital.

French President Emmanuel Macron has historically emphasized the importance of Chad's stability to French interests. Macron was the only Western leader to attend the funeral of Idriss Déby in April 2021, signaling French support for Déby’s son, Mahamat, who is now the Chadian ruler. Despite this, Mahamat Déby is evidently seeking new international ties, including with Russia, reflecting a broader regional trend.

In a symbolic move earlier this year, Mahamat Déby visited Moscow, where he was seen in a handshake with Russian President Vladimir Putin. His public denouncement of foreign disrespect in May, "Those who don't respect us, get out!" was interpreted as a direct rebuke to France.

The involvement of Russian paramilitary forces, specifically the Wagner Group, in Chad has added another dimension to this geopolitical shift. Analysts, such as Charles Bouëssel from the International Crisis Group, note that the Wagner Group played a role during Mahamat Déby's recent presidential campaign, enhancing his popularity domestically and signaling a departure from French influence.

The abrupt announcement of France’s withdrawal comes as a surprise, particularly following the departure of France’s foreign minister Jean-Noël Barrot from Chad and recommendations by Jean-Marie Bockel, President Macron’s envoy to Africa, which suggested a reduction—not a complete withdrawal—of French forces. The news comes amidst broader discontent with foreign military presence in Chad, as evidenced by the U.S. pulling out 75 Special Forces in April.

This dissolution of the military partnership marks a notable transition in the Sahel region’s geopolitical landscape, as Chad was considered the remaining strong ally of France in the area.