Chad's Warning to Expel US Troops Amid Russian Influence Surge in Africa

The government of Chad has put the US military presence in another African country at risk by sending a letter threatening to end a crucial security agreement. This move could potentially lead to the loss of US influence in the region to Russia.

Last week, Chadian officials sent a letter to the US defense attaché, stating their intention to terminate the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA). The SOFA outlines the rules and conditions for US military personnel to operate in Chad. Although the letter did not explicitly demand the departure of US forces from Chad, officials mentioned that all US troops would need to vacate the French base in N’Djamena.

The US Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) at the base was specifically mentioned in the letter, according to two sources. This task force serves as a crucial hub for US Special Operations Forces in the region. However, it's important to note that the task force is not the only group of US military personnel stationed at the base. In fact, all US service members in Chad are located in N'Djamena.

One official mentioned that the letter was not sent through official diplomatic channels, which is the usual protocol for handling such matters. The sources also pointed out that the letter could potentially be a negotiation tactic employed by the government of Chad. It's possible that they are seeking a new agreement that aligns more closely with their own interests.

The exact number of US troops in the country is not clear but one US official said there are fewer than 100 troops there.

CNN has asked Chad’s government for comment.

Just a month after Niger ended its agreement with the US military, Chad has also decided to terminate its agreement with the US. According to an intelligence source, Chad is looking to follow Niger's lead and negotiate for more concessions from the US. However, US officials were surprised by Chad's sudden decision to end the SOFA agreement.

The timing of this decision is crucial for US interests in Africa, with American officials expressing concerns about the growing Russian influence on the continent.

During a Senate Armed Services Committee meeting in March, Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, the head of US Africa Command, raised alarms about Russia's rapid expansion efforts in central Africa and the Sahel region.

Langley expressed concerns about a number of countries on the brink of falling under Russian influence, with false narratives being spread in Libya and the Maghreb region. He emphasized the importance of NATO maintaining access and influence in the region, spanning from Morocco to Libya.

During a recent hearing with the House Armed Services Committee, Langley highlighted the dilemma faced by Central African countries. While they require developmental aid from countries like Russia and China, they must also consider the potential risks to their national sovereignty.

"In this area, there is a lot at stake," mentioned Langley.

Langley, accompanied by AFRICOM's senior enlisted advisor, Sgt. Maj. Michael Woods, visited Chad in January this year. During their visit, Langley had meetings with Chadian military officials, including Gen. Abakar Abdelkerim Daoud, who is Chad's Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, as reported in an AFRICOM press release.

Langley said in the release that AFRICOM “remains dedicated to building enduring partnerships with Chad and other African nations.”

Editor's P/S:

The recent moves by Chad and Niger to terminate security agreements with the US are deeply concerning, as they could potentially lead to a loss of American influence in Africa and a strengthening of Russia's presence on the continent. Russia has been actively expanding its influence in Africa, particularly in central Africa and the Sahel region, and the US has been concerned about the spread of Russian disinformation and the potential for Russian military intervention in the region. The US has been providing military assistance and training to Chad and Niger, and the termination of these agreements could jeopardize these efforts.

It is important for the US to maintain its presence in Africa and to counter the growing Russian influence on the continent. The US has a long history of working with African countries on security, development, and other issues, and it is important to continue these relationships. The US should work with Chad and Niger to find a mutually acceptable solution that allows the US to maintain its presence in these countries and continue to support their security and development efforts.