France Transfers Military Base to Chad

France has officially handed over its first military base in Chad, located at Faya-Largeau, as part of its withdrawal of forces following Chad's termination of military cooperation with France. This handover was confirmed by both the French and Chadian militaries, with further withdrawals planned from other bases in Abeche and N'Djamena. The decision to end military cooperation stems from differing positions on the civil conflict in Sudan, as stated by Chad's Foreign Minister. Previously, France had been a significant military presence in the Sahel region, actively involved in anti-terrorism efforts, but has faced requests for withdrawal from several countries including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The withdrawal marks a significant shift in Chad's military alliances, with an increasing pivot towards Russian influence in the region. French authorities have indicated that military vehicles will be repatriated by January via Cameroon.