Chad’s President Mahamat Deby stated that the decision to end the military agreement with France was made because it had become obsolete, marking his first public comments since the unexpected announcement last week.

In a speech given late Sunday, Deby emphasized that the pact no longer met Chad’s security or geopolitical requirements. The country has faced a jihadist insurgency for over a decade, and support from French and U.S. forces has not succeeded in establishing stability.

“This break reflects our determination to develop a Chadian army that is more self-sufficient, more dedicated, and more accountable in safeguarding our nation,” Deby remarked.

Until recently, the West viewed Chad as a crucial ally in combating jihadist threats in the Sahel region. Groups affiliated with Boko Haram and the Islamic State are active in the Lake Chad area along the southwestern border.

In October, approximately 40 soldiers lost their lives in a bold attack on a military installation, prompting Deby to threaten withdrawal from a multinational security force comprising countries surrounding Lake Chad.

Deby’s choice to terminate the agreement with France may necessitate the departure of all French troops, who have been stationed in Chad for over sixty years since its independence. This year, Chad also expelled a small contingent of U.S. forces based in the country.

Deby noted that the agreement did not deliver significant military benefits amid ongoing challenges, including terrorist threats. He affirmed that Chad remains open to collaborating with all partners, including France.

This agreement was established in a different time, involving different parties and under a completely altered context. As time has passed, this agreement has lost its relevance, he stated.

France has been compelled to withdraw its troops from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger due to military coups in these West African nations and a rising wave of anti-French sentiment.

The United States is experiencing a similar situation in the region. Last summer, Niger mandated the closure of its newly established multimillion-dollar spy base, which was crucial for military operations in the Sahel, following deteriorating discussions with Washington.

The French military withdrawal, alongside the U.S. retreat from Africa, stands in stark contrast to the growing influence of Russia and other nations, such as Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, on the continent. Russian mercenaries are actively supporting the military regimes in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, engaging in combat against Islamist militants alongside them.

“This choice was made after considerable deliberation,” Deby remarked. “It stems from thorough reflection and careful assessment. It honors a promise made to the Chadian populace.”